Syracuse University pulls off its first ever dance marathon, raising thousands for local children's hospital

Dressed in neon, tutus, and fanny packs, people packed into Syracuse University's Women's Building to participate in the university's first ever dance marathon, OttoTHON.

Beginning at Penn State University as a fundraiser event years ago, dance marathons have gradually become national events.

SU joined in on the fun this year in order to raise money for Upstate Golisano Children's Hospital near campus. Beginning at 6pm on February 28, various organizations gathered as a community for a 12-hour overnight dance marathon, raising a whopping $84,000 of it's $105,000 goal.

Throughout the night, The Mandarins, SU's female A Capella group, covered various songs while the SU Ballroom Dance Organization wowed the crowed. Even SU rap sensation Rip City Rick performed a few of his tracks.

Perhaps the most enriching part of the night were the speeches given from actual children from the Golisano Hospital.

Children who were able to make it to the event despite their illnesses spoke of how the money raised will help them live more comfortably and be more like a kid and less like a patient.

In addition, a Syracuse alumna gave a touching speech about her brother who had passed away from cancer, illustrating the importance of the fundraiser for everyone involved.

By the time 6am rolled around, everyone was exhausted, but that was irrelevant because OttoTHON was a success.

All in all, Syracuse University pulled off it's first ever dance marathon and paved the way for its success in years to come.