By: Gisele Cerutti, Olivia Fisher, Jack Pronobis, and Sofia Villaluz
As the leaves were falling on Sunday, October 20th, THON™ volunteers, Four Diamonds families, Penn State students, alumni, and residents of Happy Valley gathered in support of the participants running in the THON 5K powered by PNC. This event is the first of many to bring together the whole THON community, in person, leading up to THON Weekend 2025. Each step along the course is a step toward hope, reflecting the Penn State community’s dedication to this cause.
Since 2002, hundreds of students assemble at Curtain Road near the Bryce Jordan Center (BJC) and Beaver Stadium to partake in an event that holds more meaning than simply hitting a personal record time. The event symbolizes a united front against childhood cancer. The money raised will go towards funding 100% of the patient care cost and fund lifesaving research. Large events, such as the THON 5K powered by PNC, have greatly impacted the start of getting people together and benefiting this beautiful fight towards conquering childhood cancer.
Sidney Cohen, a Family Relations Captain with four years of involvement, describes the THON 2025 theme, “A Home for Hope”, as providing a “space for all families.” She emphasizes that THON is not just about financial reliefs for families, but also about creating joyful, supportive environments for children and their loved ones. Cohen says THON is symbol of hope for the future of childhood cancer and working towards a cure.
The THON 5K powered by PNC was filled with excitement and activities that fostered a sense of community. Attendees enjoyed face painting, where children could transform into their favorite animals or get a golden ribbon symbolizing childhood cancer awareness. There was also food, balloon art, and live music, adding to the festive atmosphere. Participants had the chance to make friendship bracelets that mirror the unity THON represents.
Jared Cannon, a third-year biochemistry and molecular biology student, serves as a Family Relations Bereaved Family Contacts Captain and shared his experience of the day. His responsibilities included registering families, coordinating family meals, and engaging with children and families through games and activities. “There’s the kids stretch, and kids race that’s coming up soon,” he said, highlighting the event’s focus on family-friendly fun.
Nick Patterson explained how his day benefits THON. As a Captain for the Supply Logistics committee, Patterson is involved in selling raffle tickets throughout the 5K. Raffle tickets were sold for $5.00 and could be credited to any committees involved in the cause. He describes his reason for support as “making sure that [THON is] a home and community for all the different families that are involved within Four Diamonds and THON and making sure that we could provide any hope and any support that we could give to those families throughout the year.”
The THON 5K powered by PNC is a reminder of the power of community. As the participants crossed the line, the event signified the beginning of a year-long journey filled with support and unwavering dedication to ending childhood cancer. In every moment, from the laughter of children to the smiles of volunteers, the spirit of THON was prominent. It’s not just about the miles run, but the lives touched. As we move forward, let us carry this spirit of hope and community with us throughout the various events leading up to THON Weekend 2025.
To ensure that THON is able to donate 96 cents of every dollar raised to Four Diamonds at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital, we heavily rely on donor support. These donations provide us the resources to create endless memories for our Four Diamonds families & foster a deep love & connection to our mission for our volunteers through Pre-THON Events, alternative fundraisers, & THON Weekend.
