Raising the bar

Every three months, Bloomington resident JillAnn Meunier, a bright-eyed 12-year-old with rosy cheeks and a wide smile, goes to Riley Hospital for Children to undergo treatment for a growth hormone deficiency.\nThis weekend, hundreds of IU students sacrificed sleep to raise more than half a million dollars -- $677,415.19 to be exact -- at the 15th annual IU Dance Marathon. \nThe dancers raised money throughout the year, ending in great finale -- the marathon -- so Meunier and thousands of young people with health impediments can continue to reach and maintain a life without illness.\nIUDM participants raised the bar again this weekend at the School of Health, Physical Education and Recreation gymnasium, exceeding last year's record-setting amount by more than $200,000.\nSince 1991, when IUDM was first implemented, almost $4 million has been raised for Riley Hospital for Children in Indianapolis. The dance marathon at IU is the third largest in the nation.\n"I felt like so many people worked so hard," said IUDM president Chris Carlson. "It's a great, great thing. It will be amazing to present the check at Riley."\nMeunier and about 20 other young people who have received treatment at Riley attended the event in addition to the 600-plus dancers.\n"They're our reminder for why we're here," said junior Katie Koors, IUDM Riley Development Coordinator.\nAlso, the initials FTK and ALC were plastered among banners and T-shirts. FTK stood for "for the kids," meaning for the children of Riley, while ALC stood for IU student Ashley Louise Crouse, who died in a car accident in April. This year's marathon was held in honor of both Riley children and Crouse, who served as vice president of communications for IUDM.\nAt the event's kick-off Friday evening, a torch was lit by a young Riley patient in memory of Crouse. The torch remained lit for the entire 36 hours of the event.\nCarlson, who was Crouse's boyfriend, addressed the crowd. \n"Some things are bigger than us all," he said. "This is one of those things."\nWhile the event raised funds and had special meanings, it was also about lighthearted fun. \nThroughout the day and a half, local bands and musicians entertained the mass of dancers. Dancers learned to line dance and partook in donated meals, Carlson said. \nWhile participants weren't expected to boogie the entire time, they were allowed to sit down only to eat.\nSophomore Jessica Richardson entered the HPER last Saturday night with a bag of bottles of apple juice for her friends serving as dancers. Richardson, a member of Alpha Xi Delta, served as a "dancer buddy" for the weekend. \nMost greek houses supported their representatives at the event by designating a person to deliver snacks or help with activities.\n"Sandwiches. Lots of sandwiches," were a primary request, said Richardson. \nCheese and protein bars were popular items, too, she said, as her friends sought food that would give them energy to last the entire 36 hours.\nCaffeine also seemed to be a widespread aid to the dancers. Tables filled with Polar Pop cups filled the back of the gymnasium.\nAlthough Richardson said she'd made countless trips throughout the day, she didn't mind.\n"Every single dancer raised at least $300. Of course they deserve to be entertained," she said.\nAlso, entertainment was provided. In addition to the live music acts, a talent show, "Riley Idol," featuring acts from children who have been treated at Riley occurred late Saturday night and served as a real morale-booster for the weary dancers, Koors said.\n"For 25 minutes, dancers forget they might be tired," she said.\nSophomore Sarah Brand, a dancer representing Alpha Phi, said the children's presence was important to her.\n"The nighttime was the worst when the kids weren't there. I didn't struggle when I saw the kids," she said.\nAt the event's conclusion, 8 a.m. Sunday, participants stormed the stage as IUDM counting committee members presented the final total raised. High-fives and hugs were passed around among the crowd.\n"I'm extremely proud of the work everyone has done," Carlson said. "It's a real testament to the individuals we have involved."\nCarlson said Crouse would have been proud. \n"She was adamant about getting over $600,000 this year. It was like she was there," he said.\nIUDM executives will present the check Friday in Indianapolis.