Pictured above: USF St. Petersburg raised $2,737 for Children’s Miracle Network and Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital in the eight-hour dance marathon with donations, raffles and more.
Cassidy Schuck | The Crow’s Nest
By Gabby Dacosta
Students showcased their favorite dance moves, played games with friends and rode a mechanical bull while bringing awareness and raising money at the fifth annual Miracle Dance Marathon.
The eight-hour event, which took place on March 4 in the University Student Center ballrooms, raised $2,737 for Children’s Miracle Network and Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital.
Taylor Asgard, a second-year graduate assistant for the Office of Leadership and student organizations, helped welcome participants with colorful glow sticks, free T-shirts and yellow hospital bracelets.
Having volunteered at Johns Hopkins in the past and having a mother who works there, Asgard said the hospital has been a big part of her life.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to give back to the hospital,” she said.
She hoped the event would raise money for patient academic services as well as bring awareness to how students can get involved in helping the hospital “fight against childhood illness.”
The event showcased a variety of activities and a theme of music that changed every hour.
To fit “‘90s Hour,” Jonathan Hernandez, a freshman graphic design major, wore his self-made “Rocko’s Modern Life” shirt.
“I came today because I wanted to do something for a good cause and to be supportive of people because that’s who I am,” Hernandez said.
He said that he looks forward to “random dancing” and helping benefit the children at the hospital.
Marina Marasco, a 12-year-old former patient at the hospital, attended the event with her mother, Nikki.
Having had more than 20 surgeries and been on life support for several years, Marina said the event meant “the world” to her.
“They’re not only dancing and having a good time, but also raising money for an amazing cause and supporting kids like me,” she said.
Marina and her mother attend and speak at many dance marathons across 16 counties where Johns Hopkins All Children’s serves. Her mother said it’s “heartwarming” to see people who don’t personally know who they’re dancing and raising money for have fun and be passionate about the cause.
“It’s an opportunity for them to have fun, but at the same time, they’re helping so many children,” Nikki Marasco said.
She said that she and other families have benefited greatly from Children’s Miracle Network.
Marina and her mother encourage families and other patients to stay positive.
“No matter what you’re going through, just stay strong because it will get better,” Marina said.
While Marina’s favorite dance move is “the woah,” others weren’t afraid to show off their moves as well.
The South Florida All Stars, USF St. Petersburg’s co-ed dance team, performed a dance number that included popular songs from TikTok. Many whooped and cheered during their routine as they watched the team dance in synchronization.
“It’s a really great event to help the children of Johns Hopkins, and we were happy to do it,” said Madison Grosse, a freshman health science major and dancer in the South Florida All Stars.
Johnette Williams and Riley Hancock, both freshman science majors, also had fun dancing at the event. Williams said her favorite dance is the “Cupid Shuffle.”
Williams also said the event brings awareness to volunteer opportunities at the hospital and a way for students to get involved in the community.
“My friend and I learned that you can volunteer there holding babies, and we’re interested in going and volunteering,” she said.
Brigham Sibley, a freshman business major, also danced at the event and took a ride on the mechanical bull.
“The bull was fun,” he said. “My hands are kind of chapped after, but it was worth it.”
He attended the event to destress and have fun during his study break.
The event also welcomed the hospital school teachers who help patients complete their schoolwork, communicate with their teachers, inform families on what schooling would be best for their child and more.
Annette Pagliaro is a hospital school teacher who helps students from age 6 to college. It was her first time attending the event, and she said it was fun to come out and see college students raise money for the cause.
Haley Hickock has been a teacher’s assistant at the hospital for more than two years. She works with kids from age 3 to college.
“It’s really rewarding, and I have the best team to work with,” she said.
The marathon closed at midnight with the reveal of how much money was raised and a “Circle of Hope,” where participants joined hands and had their hospital bracelets taken off to represent patients having theirs taken off at their last appointment.
