4 Days until Dance Marathon

You do not need a cape to be a hero. Heroes come in all shapes and sizes. They are fighters, believers, and dreamers. Everyone has a hero that has helped shaped their life for the better. We asked members of the Dance Marathon community who their heroes were and why they admire them: 

“My hero is my Grandma because of after all the trials she’s faced (losing a child, a husband, and having breast cancer twice) she still manages to find joy in all of her days and be a light in the lives of those around her. This reminds me of many of the Miracle Children and their families we’re dancing for because while they’re going through the worst possible situations, they manage to find joy and be appreciative of us working to raise funds and awareness for them! They inspire us everyday!” – Lizzee Lohmann, Captain

“My hero is Lauren Atkins because she raises awareness for the worldwide orphan crisis and adopted a baby girl from uganda, Africa.” -Mary Prakas, Captain

“My hero is my mom, Dorothy Eouse, because she is the mother of five and has first hand experience of what it’s like to stand by her town child fighting a battle with cancer and come out a survivor. And, my brother, Matthew Eouse, who is a survivor.” – Madison Eouse, Alumni

“My hero is my Overall, Haley. She is truly an inspiration to all of us. She has been an incredible mentor and our high school programs would not have been nearly as successful without her strong leadership.” -Bryan Greenfield, Captain

“My hero is my sweet Bella girl. She loves so well in the middle of some of the biggest storms, storms a kiddo should never have to experience. Her smile radiates joy for miles and her heart welcomes anyone and everyone without a question. Her resilience in the face of adversity is inspiring. She may be 6 years old, but she’s certainly my biggest hero.” -Katie Cornelius, Assistant Director

“My mom is my hero because she always works her hardest to make my brother and I happy. Her selflessness inspires me to help others. She constantly puts our needs before hers and I wouldn’t be where I am without her.” -Katie Schramm, Dancer

“My DM hero is Lea Guccione. Why? Everyone thinks cancer is scary but this girl made it look easy because of her radiating hope and positive energy. I’m so lucky to call Gucci one of my best friends.” -Natalie Vala, Captain

“My dad is my hero because he has taught the most important way to overcome obstacles you may face is to stay true to yourself. He never comprises what she believes is right. I believe this is one of the strongest things a person can do, and he makes it look so easy! I am so grateful to have him as a role model and that he raised me to have the same sort of resiliency for myself.” -Taylor Hupp, Dancer