Penn State THON

TC Open Continues Its Support of Penn State THON

The TC Open Charitable Foundation is proud to continue its support of Penn State THON, one of the largest student-run philanthropies in the world dedicated to fighting childhood cancer. For the past three years, TC Open has partnered with THON to help support children and families facing pediatric cancer.

THON is a year-long fundraising effort led by Penn State students to support children battling pediatric cancer. Thousands of volunteers organize events, raise funds, and spread awareness throughout the year. The effort culminates in the annual 46-hour dance marathon at the Bryce Jordan Center, where students remain standing the entire time in honor of the children and families they support.

All funds raised through THON benefit Four Diamonds, an organization that helps cover medical expenses for families and supports groundbreaking pediatric cancer research at Penn State Health Children’s Hospital.

Supporting Children and Families

Through its continued support of THON, the TC Open Charitable Foundation helps make it possible for Four Diamonds to provide critical resources for families navigating pediatric cancer. We were able to help provide up to six small research experiments, driving innovation in pediatric cancer treatment, three weeks of support from a dedicated social work team, helping families navigate care, and 100 hours of Child Life services, ensuring children receive emotional and developmental support throughout their treatment.

Penn State Health’s Associate Director of Medical Development, Matt Marzzacco, recently shared his appreciation for TC Open’s ongoing partnership:

“The TC Open Charitable Foundation is making a profound and meaningful difference in the lives of children and families battling childhood cancer. We cannot thank you enough for your continued partnership and generosity."

 A Story of Strength: Logan McCarthy

THON is about more than fundraising; it’s about the children and families whose strength inspires the entire community.

One of those children is Logan McCarthy, who was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in 2014, a type of pediatric cancer that affects the nervous system. Logan’s journey, like so many others supported through Four Diamonds, has been filled with courage, resilience, and hope.

Today, Logan is in remission, and his story is a powerful reminder of the impact that the THON community has in supporting children and families throughout their treatment and recovery.

During THON Weekend, one particularly emotional moment came when Logan’s mom surprised him with a reunion after returning home from military service. The moment captured the spirit of the THON community, bringing families together and celebrating the strength of children fighting pediatric cancer.

Stories like Logan’s are at the heart of THON and serve as a reminder of why the Penn State community continues to rally together For The Kids (FTK).

For The Kids

Supporting THON aligns closely with TC Open’s mission of helping children and strengthening communities. The organization is honored to stand alongside the Penn State community in the fight against pediatric cancer and remains committed to supporting this important cause.

At THON, volunteers rally around three powerful words: For The Kids (FTK).

TC Open is proud to support this mission and the incredible children and families who inspire it.