Two students from Penn State Scranton will spend the next 46 hours on their feet as they’re headed to THON, the university’s annual dance marathon fundraiser.

SCRANTON, Pa. — It’s a weekend of music and meaning as Penn State University’s annual THON weekend kicks off dancing for a cure. 

“I’m like a very emotional person, so I’m probably going to need tons of tissues and things like that, but I’m really excited just to see all of our hard work pay off,” said Emma Bannon, Events Captain.

But before the bright lights, the music, and the packed floor, there’s a celebratory send-off in Scranton. 

“I was still even packing this morning for some of the stuff, so I mean, I’m definitely very excited, there’s a little bit of fear to it, but we have so much support here,” said Alexis Colasurdo, dancer.

It took months of work and planning at Penn State Scranton. The commonwealth campus raised more than $20,000 for this year’s effort.

“We raised almost $18 million last year. I’m hoping Penn State can beat that this year. I’m hoping for a nice record during our total reveal here at Penn State Scranton, as well,” said Gavin Quimby, Student Government Association President.

For these two dancers, there’s a science to mastering 46 hours on the floor, which includes cutting out caffeine and months of preparation. 

“Compression socks I practiced, stretching, like last night we were doing some crazy stretches. And then also standing for a long amount of time, especially at my job, I stand for a long amount of time,” said Airiana Scarfo, dancer.

But they won’t go at it alone, beside them will be support from home. 

“While they’re working physically and mentally, we’re trying to help as far as the emotional side of it, bringing in core memories, bringing in different activities for them to continue and be able to stand for 46 hours,” said Gavin Quimby, Student Government Association President.

From the Penn State campus in Scranton to the biggest stage at University Park.

“I think it’s for a great cause and to really show that you know we can challenge ourselves, and that challenge is nothing compared to what some of these kids go through every day,” said Colasurdo.

Soon the music will start, the countdown will begin, and 46 hours will tick by.

“Oh my gosh, I have to do this. Just nervous. But also, it’s really emotional, especially during the final four which is like when they show all the families and everything, so that’s going to be really emotional,” said Scarfo.

“It’s going to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for sure,” said Colasurdo.

THON kicks off inside Penn State’s Bryce Jordan Center at University Park this Friday night. Dancers will be on their feet through Sunday afternoon in State College. For more information, click here.