THON is a year-long effort that raises funds and awareness for the fight against pediatric cancer. With the support of students from all across the commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and THON Alumni all around the world, we continue to make great strides towards finding a cure for all childhood cancers!

Last year, the Tennis Club organized the first-ever Tennis Club MaraTHON in Lancaster, PA. Last year the Tennis Club raised more than $1,800 at the event thanks to sponsors, attendees and donors. The MaraTHON is comprised of clinics, mini-tournaments, round robins, and open court time. It will be held this year from Janaury 23-24, 2010. Learn even more here.

The Four Diamonds Fund is the sole beneficiary of THON's fundraising efforts, to which it has contributed more than $52 million. The Fund offsets the cost of treatment that insurance does not cover, as well as expenses that may disrupt the welfare of the child. The Fund supports the medical team that cares for the children and funds pediatric cancer research through start-up grants and the Four Diamonds Pediatric Cancer Research Institute.

Many of the organizations that support THON adopt a Four Diamonds Family to provide mutual support, inspiration, and encouragement. The Penn State Tennis Club has partnered with the Rivera Family and their Four Diamonds child, Tessa. Tessa is a 16-year-old who suffers from Down Syndrome and is in remission from an aggressive form of Leukemia. She loves the movie High School Musical, the Philadelphia Eagles, and everything pink. Tessa has a younger brother, Elijah, an older sister, Olivia, and a brother-in-law Corey. Her loving and supporting parents are Cindy and Ed.

If you are looking to get involved in THON through the Penn State Tennis Club, please contact our THON Chairs Stephanie Milliken or Leslie Finlay.