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The United States celebrates Child Health Day on Monday, Oct. 5. The day serves to educate people on how they can protect and develop children’s health.

, the university’s largest student-run campus program, will be holding various activities around campus to raise awareness about children’s health and encourage support for .

“It’s important to recognize Child Health Day because there are so many kids that endure a lot more pain than most,” explains Vice President of Marketing Hailey Nettler ’21. “Child Health Day is all about celebrating these amazing young kids and educating every generation about the statistics behind the hospitals, the healthcare, and how we can do our part to make a difference for these kids.”

Nettler emphasized the importance of doing as much as possible to help these children and their families. ���ϲ�����thon is joined by  who share their unique stories throughout the year.

Today, ���ϲ�����thon staff will be at tables around campus to share facts about children’s health and provide information about the program. Staff members will also be pushing a cart around campus with the information, and hosting games to play outside of Alumni Gym.

“We encourage everyone to come out, visit us around campus, and get to know more about ���ϲ�����thon and children’s health,” said Nettler. “This day is all about celebrating our amazing kids, and we hope that reflects onto our campus.”

���ϲ�����thon is ���ϲ�����’s largest philanthropic event, and each year the organization holds a 13.1-hour dance marathon in the spring. This year, the annual dance marathon was held virtually, but Nettler is optimistic about holding an in-person event in 2021.

“We are planning for a regular event this year, but who knows what things will look like?” said Nettler. “We have many different options for different scenarios.”

Students looking to get involved will have the opportunity to register as a dancer on Monday by visiting one of the tables around campus.

���ϲ�����thon recently announced its 2020-21 campaign, “Like a Kid.” The slogan encourages people to reminisce about their childhoods while connecting to the Miracle Kids and their stories.

“This year has definitely been really hard for everyone, so we thought that bringing some youth into our campaign is something everyone can relate to,” said Nettler. “Thinking back about what we did as kids, and what are kids are doing, is a really good connection point. Our kids experience more pain than most, so we encourage everyone to think about their bravery, their smiles, and their love.”

The ���ϲ�����thon staff is enthusiastic about the year ahead and are grateful that they have been able to continue their push days and hold their regular meetings in a safe setting.

“This year more than ever, kids can’t wait, and they need our help,” said Nettler.

More information about ���ϲ�����thon can found on their website, by emailing elonthon@gmail.com, or by following the organization on Instagram and Facebook.