Giving ‘A Fight Beyond Four Years’ New Meaning

“No parent should ever have to hear the words, ‘your child has cancer.’” This phrase is often used by the THON community as inspiration — igniting the passion of why more than 16,500 student volunteers dedicate countless hours every year to the cause.

Stephanie Wittig, ‘11 Bus, believed in this mission. From dancing in THON and serving on a Dancer Relations Committee, Stephanie formed relationships with Four Diamonds kids and families and made lifelong memories as a Penn State student. 
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But now, as a parent herself, this phrase takes on a new powerful meaning. 

“I believed in this before, but now that I am a parent, I literally could not imagine ever having to hear those words,” Stephanie said. “I continue to fundraise for those families who are not as fortunate, so that some day, they will hear ‘your child is cancer free’ and that they will grow up to live long, happy, healthy lives.” 

In Summer 2014, Stephanie received an email from DMAIG asking for volunteers to run 135 miles from the Hershey Medical Center to the Bryce Jordan Center, a relay affectionately known as The Hope Express. What might seem a daunting task for some was exciting to Stephanie, and she ran for The Hope Express in 2015 and 2016. 

Then, in 2017, Stephanie took another step in her involvement by dancing 46 hours as an alumna and participating in the first-ever Hope From Coast to Coast, an event she has participated in every year since. 

“I feel it's my way to give back to an organization that gave me so much,” Stephanie said. “I know that running may not be for everyone, but find what IS for you and get involved however you can.”
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This year, Stephanie’s Hope From Coast to Coast fundraising goal was lower than previous years due to expected challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, but she has already surpassed it by nearly $2,000 with two weeks of the fundraiser remaining. 

As for the fitness component of Hope From Coast to Coast, Stephanie realized that she may not be able to complete the 46 minutes of exercise for 46 days, “unless you count chasing after a toddler, feeding a baby and changing diapers,” she said. 

So, she opted to create her own goal: Running a total of 46 miles in the 46 days leading up to THON.

“I knew it would be challenging since I hadn't run since before I was pregnant,” she said. “I am proud to say that I have run 36 of my 46 miles and am confident I will surpass that number as well.” 

Since reconnecting with THON as an alumna in 2015, Stephanie has raised over $55,000, For The Kids. 

“If you’re considering getting re-engaged with THON as alumni, do it,” Stephanie said. “You will be so glad that you did. Do it in a big way or a small way, but however you do, just know it will be so worth it.”