A Community United for a Cure

By: Abby Conrad, Justin Lejeune, Kaitlyn Murphy, and Sylvia Prebor

For many participants, the THON™ 5K powered by PNC is more than just a race — it’s a chance to connect with the children and families who benefit from THON’s efforts. 

On Sunday, October 20th, the THON 5K powered by PNC united thousands of students, families, and community members all gathered to support one cause: finding a cure for childhood cancer. As part of the annual THON fundraising and awareness effort, this event played a key role in generating support for the fight against childhood cancer. 

The energy on race day was electric, with participants of all ages lining up to run or walk in support of the kids. THON Hospitality Committee Member Megan Williams expressed her excitement for the cause. 

“I think it’s the best cause ever,” Williams, a junior kinesiology major, said. “I’m looking forward to working (with) my whole committee, I think it’s gonna be so fun. And to take on a bigger role within Hospitality.” 

One of the families that attended the event is The Hess Family, who participated this year with their twelve-year-old daughter, Lydia, who was diagnosed when she was two years old and is now eight years off treatment. 

“Right now, what we’re the most grateful for is how, even though she’s doing amazing, Four Diamonds continues to follow her and check in on her. They support us well into survivorship,” Lydia’s mother, Julie, shared. Their gratitude for the continuous support from Four Diamonds is evident, as they highlight the organization’s commitment not just during treatment but long after, helping survivors like their daughter thrive. 

Thomas English, a member of Friends of the Organization (FOTO), shared his excitement about running with one of FOTO’s THON children who had recently taken up cross-country. 

“I’m really looking forward to it. One of our THON children just started cross country, so he’s gonna try to go for a really good time today. We talk to his parents a lot, and they want us to time him and make sure he doesn’t stop,” English, a senior broadcast journalism major, said. “I think this is the third or fourth time I’ve run with him…and it’s always a lot of fun.” 

Whether running, walking, volunteering, or simply cheering from the sidelines, the event brought everyone together in pursuit of a cure. As the Hess Family said, “Whether you walk or run, it doesn’t matter. You’re here, and that’s what counts.” The THON 5K powered by PNC served as a reminder of the power of community in making a real difference in the lives of children and families fighting cancer.