Dear Friends and Family,

Jagathon, which supports pediatric research at the Wells Center of Riley Hospital for Children, is a cause that has been so close to my heart since high school, and this is my final year of being a member.  Although I would not know it for years, going to the first DM call-out meeting eight years ago was honestly what I would now consider as one of the “big moments” of my life. I am so blessed to have joined dance marathon that year, even though I was just a participant. All year, I honestly wasn’t the most involved and was primarily in it for the fun, but after going to my first “Dance Marathon Main Event” and meeting more of the Riley families, I knew I wanted to do anything I could to support pediatric healthcare and healthcare research. Since continuing dance marathon, I have gained so many more “whys” that I keep engaging in philanthropic efforts. Each and every person on dance marathon inspires and encourages me to keep fundraising and engaging in philanthropic efforts. 

This year, I am so incredibly honored to be serving as the Vice President of External Relations this year. Being a both a ~science gal~ and a volunteer at Riley Hospital, it is so impactful to me that our cause is pediatric research, because I have seen both the behind the scenes lab work that goes into research and the tangible and life-altering benefits to children and their families that research can have. Also, volunteering at Riley has given me a more worldview of the challenges many families face throughout their lives. When I first started to volunteer at Riley, I never expected to be as immediately connected to each family as I am. Every time I walk into Riley, I get a new reason to keep fighting for better healthcare policies and increased access to healthcare research. I plan to continue volunteering at Riley Hospital for Children as soon as I am able to pandemic-wise. 

Dance marathon has helped shape my future career in the nonprofit sector. It has led me to meet some of my best friends and amazing mentors. It has shown me that everyone can make a difference. Please consider making a gift above to support pediatric research and the kiddos and families at Riley Hospital for Children! :)

 

	Student-Led Movement  Miracle Network Dance Marathon is a student-led movement supporting Children's Miracle Network Hospitals. All year long, we raise funds for the Wells Center for Pediatric Research at Riley Hospital for Children!
	Dedicated to supporting kids  I'm joining other students, faculty and community members who are dedicated to supporting kiddos and families in need by asking for donations from friends like y'all!
	Donations stay local to help kids in our community  Donations stay local to ensure that all kids get the care they need, but the benefits of the research done at the Wells Center can be seen worldwide!