University of Iowa Dance Marathon
Helloooooo from Iowa! Today I find myself in this great state giving a talk at the University of Iowa for the Dance Marathon program.
The Dance Marathon is an amazing STUDENT-run organization that provides emotional and financial support to families affected by pediatric cancer. Their tag line is: “Creating Tomorrow by Dancing Today.” How great is that?
Since it’s founding in 1994 the organization has raised over $12 million (yes, TWELVE MILLION DOLLARS!) that goes directly to children and their families in the hospital. Talk about an incredible Silver Lining. The money raised goes to provide wigs, co-pays, parking vouchers, funeral costs, meal vouchers, games, and a variety of other resources to help families throughout the process. They also have events held throughout the year to raise awareness for the cause such as Lime Days and 100 Days Out that focus on the fun college experience while maintaining a focus of why they do what they do.
As a pediatric hospice and social worker, this program has extra special meaning to me. I vividly remember caring for families who were not only emotionally, but also financially devastated by a cancer diagnosis. Every little (and big!) bit of support makes all the difference in the world!
I have been asked to speak about “How to Help a Loved One Diagnosed with Cancer” – one of my favorite topics, I have to say! I’ll be speaking at 7:30 at the Sheraton Hotel in Iowa City, 210 S Dubuque Street. The Silver Lining is that the program is open to the public, free of charge. So, if you’re in the neighborhood, I’d love to see you!
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