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BIG RED THON
  • Home
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Our Story​

​Big Red THON was founded at Cornell University in 2015, bringing the Dance Marathon movement to the Ivy League. ​Going into our 7th year, we have raised over ​$115,000 for Upstate Golisano Children's Hospital. 

Upstate Golisano  Children's Hospital

  • Provides care to 17 counties, including areas in PA and VT.
  • Sees over 100,000 pediatric patients per year.
  • Has 71 pediatric beds!
  • Occupies two floors, one spring-themed and one space themed.
  • Uses private rooms for comfort, all equipped with play stations!
  • Installed 5 playrooms that are fully stocked for the kids!
  • Supplies kids in-house library cards and classrooms for education.
  • Issues a Child Life Specialist for the duration of the stay.
  • Offers family rooms and laundry services for long-term guests.​
  • Upstate Golisano only receives 5% of its funding from NY State.
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Golisano's Own Champion 

Ezekiel Sanford, 5 years old – "Cooked carrots are yum, yum, yum!"

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Pediatricians at Upstate Golisano cared for Ezekiel at only 2 days of age, when they figured out he had a genetic disorder called phenylketonuria. His diet has to limit the amount of phenylalanine (an amino acid) he eats, meaning no bread, dairy, or meat. But, he loves his fruits and veggies! Donations like those made possible by Big Red Thon help fund specialist care at Golisano, and help provide comforts for families driving in from local counties, just like Ezekiel's. 

Meet More CMNH Miracle Kids

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Allison Kurtz

Allison was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease at a young age, bringing headaches, high blood pressure, and abdominal pain. These required a multitude of doctors checking on her and will eventually call for a kidney transplant. Allison has been a fierce advocate for transgender issues, participating most recently in Cincinnati's Pride Parade. 
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Audrey Knepp

At 11 months old, doctors informed Audrey's family that she had neuroblastoma, and would need chemotherapy as well as blood transfusions. 10 years of remission has shown her strength, and her recent diagnosis of scoliosis isn't slowing her down. Her spinal surgery is taking place at a Children's Miracle Network Hospital, made possible by your help. 

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Benjamin Burke

Days after his 7th birthday, Benjamin was found to have T-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. 3.5 years of treatment included chemotherapy and monthly clinic visits. Being able to meet one of his baseball heroes at a Children's Miracle Network Hospital helped spur his recovery and return to the baseball field. 
Big Red THON
Children's Miracle Network Hospitals Dance Marathon
Cornell University
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  Big Red THON, a not-for-profit organization, section 501(c)(3) 

  • Home
  • About Us
  • Get Involved
    • Executive Board
    • General Body
    • Team Captains
    • Participants
    • Donations and Sponsorship
  • Upcoming Events
  • Main Event
  • Contact
  • Apply
  • FAQs