Spookathon

USCDM Hosts its Annual Halloween Celebration

Sarah August, Public Relations Staff

Creating lasting memories for those who deserve it most represents a rewarding experience for those a part of University of South Carolina Dance Marathon. Hosting events that provide a space for our Miracle Kids to let loose and restore a sense of their childhood beyond the walls of the hospital remains a significant component of USCDM. 

USCDM’s annual Spookathon event, with this year’s taking place on Friday, Oct. 25, serves as one sacred tradition that the entire Dance Marathon community looks forward to each year. The Halloween celebration invites Miracle Kids and their families to trick-or-treat in the heart of the USC campus. From Disney princesses and toy story characters to cowboys and inflatable animals, all USCDM members dressed in costumes. Spookathon and similar events allow members to directly connect with miracle families, helping to further establish cause connections and learn firsthand about the impact of USCDM.

“I personally was really moved through seeing all of the miracle families gathered together. Being able to interact with the children and seeing the pure joy in their faces really showed me just exactly what Dance Marathon is all about!” Gracie James, Morale member, said.

Various student organizations who have Dance Marathon teams this year set up tables lining Greene Street, each complete with an assortment of candy, games, prizes and even pumpkin painting. Undoubtedly, a highlight of Spookathon came when watching the faces of Miracle Kids light up at the site of students in costume and seemingly endless piles of candy. In USCDM fashion, the night featured lots of dancing as well, which our Miracle Kids also jumped in on. 

“Spookathon is my favorite event we host aside from Main Event! It is such a fun and relaxing way to interact with Child Life and the miracle families on a more personal level,” Sophie Simpson, Ignite Director, said.

With November just around the corner, USCDM now looks to prepare for its second major fundraising event of the year, “Days of Miracles.” Together, internal and external members of the organization will come together for a 48-hour push to change the future of kids’ health, one dollar at a time.