Posted June 11, 2019

Students of St. Basil Academy in Jenkintown raised $28,018 for the Four Diamonds Foundation and pediatric cancer research during the May 17 Mini-THON, a 12-hour dance marathon.

It was the fifth year that the Catholic school hosted the event in which students worked diligently and with compassion to support the patients, their families and the researchers at Penn State Children’s Hospital. The students have raised almost $150,000 over the past five years.

The event ran from 7 p.m. Friday, May 17 through 7 a.m. the next morning, consisting of activities including the Miss Mini-THON contest, face painting, gifts of Bluetooth wireless headphones for all, a THON t-shirt blanket raffle and hair cutting to be donated for use in the creation of wigs for cancer patients.

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Cards were made for the Sara Smiles Foundation, which strives to create a positive environment and upbeat experiences for all children who are struggling with cancer.

Mackel Moonbounce donated a moonbounce and the St. Basil Academy Parents’ Club donated and served breakfast to many hungry students at 5 a.m.

“It is so inspiring to see our students come together as a community to help families as they battle against pediatric cancer,” said Theresa Hartey, co-moderator of Mini-THON. “The St. Basil Academy community is committed to this cause, and the time, energy, and determination that the girls demonstrate each year is truly impressive!”