Penn State University’s annual THON fundraiser isn’t just about dancing for Jim Thorpe Area High School graduates and current Nittany Lions Ella Farnell and David Richards. It’s a deeply personal mission to fight childhood cancer.

Driven by the thoughts of loved ones impacted by cancer, Farnell, a senior, and Richards, a sophomore, joined more than 700 dancers who stood on their feet for 46 grueling hours this past weekend, raising a record-breaking $16,955,683.63 for Four Diamonds, a children’s cancer charity.

Farnell said she danced in honor of Hunter Wolfe, who passed away from acute lymphoblastic leukemia in 2011.

“Ever since then,” she said, “I’ve always tried to honor him.”

Richards, meanwhile, draws strength from his brother Damien’s battle with lymphoma at age 17.

“Luckily, he was pronounced cancer free a few years ago, but he’s always been my reason to continue that fight,” he said.

While this wasn’t their first THON, the experience, they said, never loses its magic. “There is truly nothing like it,” Farnell. “It’s 100% student-run, and the whole weekend is a testament to that incredible impact.”

Richards echoed the sentiment, praising the community spirit within the Bryce Jordan Center.

“It’s awe-inspiring to be surrounded by people supporting each other,” he said. “Nobody’s sitting, everyone’s in solidarity.”

At THON, Farnell said, each participating organization isn’t just raising money, they’re building personal connections. A unique aspect of the event is the “Adopt-a-Family” program, where organizations are paired with a child battling cancer and their family. These “THON families” range in age from infants to young adults, and the pairings aim to foster genuine relationships throughout the year.

“Spending time with the families,” Richards said, “makes you grateful for every day you have.”

Farnell added, “This weekend is about making these children feel like kids, not kids with cancer.”

THON’s success hinges on fundraising. Farnell’s organization, Trilogy, raised over $120,000, and she exceeded her personal goal of $5,000. Richards’ Schreyer student council organization surpassed its expectations and raised over $1,000 this past week, leading him to shave his head.

“It’s been a fun ride,” Richards said. “Fundraising is a huge part of it because nothing would be possible without it.”

THON, Farnell and Richards said, is just the beginning. Farnell said she plans to stay involved through the alumni network and attend future events. Richards, meanwhile, aims to join a committee next year and contribute from an “inside point of view.” Both plan to continue supporting Four Diamonds and other cancer research organizations.

“THON doesn’t end once you leave Penn State,” Richards said. “It’s something you’re a part of forever.”

The duo urge anyone who can to get involved in the future, whether it’s dancing in THON, volunteering, or simply donating.

“Even if you’re not a part of Penn State, but you’re someone passionate about giving back to others,” Richards said, “going for the weekend is an unforgettable experience. It’s one of the most magical things you’ll ever be a part of.”