I’m a student at Elon University, a senior, and I will be a 24-hour dancer at Elonthon this year. You should be proud that I got through that sentence without crying after the eighth word. Don’t know what Elonthon is? It’s a 24 dance marathon to benefit the Duke Children’s Hospital held here on campus. An awesome event for an even awesomer (not a word, I know) cause.
The rules of ‘thon? Have fun. Be positive. Don’t sit down. Yes, you read that right. Throughout the duration of your shift (be it 6 hours or 24 hours) you must stand the entire time. And no caffeine! (That’s more for the dancers’ sake…so as not to get dehydrated!)
‘Thoning in 2010
Although physically taxing, I think the idea is pretty cool. To literally take a stand for kids who can’t? To stand and celebrate the kids who are in remission or recovery? To stand in remembrance of those who have gone home with the Lord? I can stand to that.
But ain’t nobody got time to stand for lengthy periods of time without being properly prepared! I’ve been a 6 hour dancer for two years (not junior year, when I went abroad), so I have a little taste of what I’ll need for the long haul. Here’s what I’m bringing…if you think of anything else, comment below!
1. A fresh change of clothes. The photo above’s grey t-shirt represents the entire fresh outfit I’ll be packing. Clean shorts, pants, and shirts will be greatly appreciated in the wee hours!
2. Two fresh pairs of socks. More, if your feet sweat. Mine barely do. I barely sweat at all, actually. ANYWAY, keep your tootsies feeling fresh all day and night, they’ll thank you! (If they don’t, the people around you will!)
3. Warm clothing. Apparently the venue’s temperature fluctuates greatly throughout the 24 hours; for that very reason bring sweatpants or leggings and a sweatshirt that you can pop on and off!
4. A comfortable change of shoes. I will be wearing tennis shoes to the event, and when my feet need a little air, I plan on changing into my Chacos, which are still extremely comfortable and supportive.
5. A beach towel. If you’re a 24 hour dancer, we get to take a dip in the pool for an hour. Float and take the weight off your feet…and dry off afterwords. We’re allowed to shower post-pool as well, so plan accordingly if you plan on taking advantage of that!
6. A bathing suit. See #5.
7. A hand towel. But I’ll use it for drying my face after I wash it! Which is a nice segway into the next grouping of smaller items…
8. Personal hygiene items. I’m bringing a toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, facewash, deodorant, hand cream, chapstick, and a hairbrush.
9. Ibuprofen. Let’s face it, at some point you may want to reap the benefits of an anti-inflammatory painkiller.
10. Snacks. Just like the grey t-shirt represents an entire outfit, those two Luna bars represent many, many more snacks that will travel with me to Elonthon for my 24 hours. As you pack, try to avoid refined sugars that will give you a crash!
11.Your Phoenix Card. You can’t check in or out of ‘thon without it, so don’t you forget it!
12. Ca$h money. There will be a snack bar, so bring some of that mulah and treat yoself to something yummy!
13. Some inspiration. This may the the most important reminder I bring. “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength!” Philippians 4:13. All things! Like stand for 24 hours!
14. A water bottle. Any amount of time that you’re standing will require some good ‘ol H20…24 hours? You better believe it! Water you gonna do without it? (Ya catch that?)
15. Cell phone. Finally, you’ll probably want to text your friends who aren’t 24 hour dancers to bring you food, hugs, and encouragement, so don’t forget your cell. Remember your charging accessories as well…you may run out of juice!
That’s a wrap…what I’m bringing to Elonthon 2013! This post goes out to each person at Elon who has had a part in making the event happen and to every child we are benefitting by taking a stand. If you’re interested in making a donation big or small, click here.
The Blair Blogs Facebook Page is creeping up on 200 “Likes,” once I hit 200 there will be a very special giveaway! Head over and like my page if you haven’t already!
As a mom of another THONer, I appreciate that you are standing/dancing for the kids. It looks like you are well prepared! (were you a girl scout by any chance?- “always prepared”)
Thank you so much for your comment! I was indeed a girl scout! Scouts taught me well. 🙂
xo,
B