The University of Dayton will be hosting its' seventh annual Dance Marathon this Saturday in the back gym at the RecPlex from noon until midnight.

Dance Marathon is a 12-hour event to raise money for the Children's Medical Center of Dayton as part of the Children's miracle network.

Children's Miracle Network is a year-round campaign to raise money and to help make miracles happen for children. 100 percent of the contributions earned stay in the community where they are raised.

Dayton Children's Medical Center'part of Children's Miracle Network'is the only medical facility dedicated solely to children, and is recognized as one of the country's premiere pediatric hospitals. The hospital offers medical treatment, advice and information for children and families from 20 Ohio counties and eastern Indiana.

UD students began Dance Marathon in 2000 and have since made over $100,000 for Dayton Children's Medical Center and this year looks like it will be one of the biggest yet. There are about 120 dancers registered for the event. Last year, they had 60 dancers and they raised about $14,000, so this year with double the attendance they hope to surpass $20,000 in contributions.

'Everyone involved has been very supportive and the people at the RecPlex have been great,' said Kristina Plucis, a senior physical therapy major who is the Overall Chair for Dance marathon. 'It's something different to do on a Saturday besides watching TV.'

There are many activities going on throughout the day and night. Dance Marathon is going to feature theme dance hours, live music, talent shows, contests and food. In addition, patient families from the Children's Center will be attending throughout the day.

UD's cab will sponsor the live music of the Debonte Brothers who will be playing from 7 to 9 p.m. The Debonte Brothers played at Humanities Plaza in the fall.

Although registration has filled, you can still pay $5 at the door and take part in the event.

'The students work hard during the year planning and organizing the event,' said Debbie May, Children's Miracle Network manger at Dayton's Children Medical Center. 'The experience the students get from being involved in this event is incredible and they are making a brighter future for our young patients as well.'