You Can!

This video shows that there will always be someone telling you you can't. If you believe in yourself enough, you can always find someone to tell you that you can.

No Arms, No Legs, No Worries!

A majority of people growing up have felt imperfect. To Nick Vujicic, imperfections are beautiful. A man who was born without arms and legs has the spirit most search for their entire lives. His story is portrayed through the video below and has become one that I have carried in my mind for the past couple years.

Find Out Why

This is one of my favorite quotes of all time. Everyone has a purpose in life, and I believe one of mine is to give back. I want to help the Riley kids fight because they deserve to find their purpose and to find out why.

Impacting Lives

My favorite memory and overall inspiration during the marathon is listening to the families tell their stories of how Riley was able to save their son or daughter and ultimately change their life for the better.  It's one thing to hear a story, see a picture, or watch a video, but when you see that little boy in front of you who is dancing his heart out to Gangnam Style and know that Riley was there to save him and make that possible, it starts to change your life too. 

IUDM is not simply an organization that raises money to benefit a cause.  It's an outstanding family of students who are determined to change people's lives. It's 36 hours full of laughter, games, stories, dancing, tears, and love.  Each and every story you hear is inspiration. Each and every child you meet or mom and dad you meet is inspirational.  They have so much respect for what Riley has been able to give them.  It warms your heart and brings tears to your eyes when they roll that red carpet down the aisle as the family walks out.  Getting to meet the Riley families and hear how you are impacting their lives through IUDM is definitely my biggest inspiration. 

Sweat and Tears

Indiana University's Dance Marathon is the culmination of so many students and families working together and supporting each other for such a great cause. Thinking about all the tears, sweat and time that people have selflessly given to benefit Riley Hospital for Children is one of my biggest points of inspiration. Thousands of people each year help make IUDM a success and thinking about how everybody makes a difference is amazing to me. Knowing I can be a part of such an event, whether I am a dancer or a committee member, is inspirational. In addition to the overall feeling of being part of such a great cause, I am inspired every time a Riley kid speaks at the marathon. The Riley kids that come and speak have been through so much and have the courage to speak in front of over one thousand college students. The courage and willpower behind these kids is inspiring.

Sarah Goone

One of my inspirations is a girl I went to high school with, Sarah Goone. During my senior year she was struck in a hit and run. Sarah was unresponsive for most of a week after the accident, but made an amazing and inspirational full recovery. Her entire story (as told mostly by her mom) can be found here: http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/sarahgoone1/journal?jid=6101272