Delaware County’s 10th annual Danny Hammond Dance Marathon aims to raise $110,000 for charity

SPRINGFIELD, Pa. (CBS) – Students at Cardinal O’Hara High School dance for 12 hours straight, and it’s all for a good cause.

The private Catholic high school in Springfield kicked off the 10th annual Danny Hammond Dance Marathon. The students dance in the gymnasium from Friday 1:00 PM to Saturday 1:00 AM, with breaks for dinner and use of the toilet.

The event is named after Danny Hammond, an alumnus of the school who died of cancer in 2014. His parents, Jody and Jack Hammond, were at the pep rally Friday to kick off the event.

“It’s been ten years since Danny’s passing and to see all these kids here spreading Danny’s smile and making a difference is just amazing,” said Jody Hammond.

Over the past few months, students have raised money through donations from family, friends, businesses and community members. All proceeds go to various charities, including: Lemonade Stand Alex Foundationa non-profit organization that funds childhood cancer research.

“Everyone knows someone who has been affected by cancer,” said Ava Hneleski, a senior at Cardinal O’Hara High School. “We may feel like it’s an enemy we can never overcome, but if we can all dance together and come together today, we’re doing our part.”

Last year the school raised $106,000. The goal this year is to raise $110,000.

“I feel like the best part is the big reveal of the night,” said Mary Kate Bauer, a senior at Cardinal O’Hara High School. “We put up a really big board with our final total and it’s satisfying for everyone because all our hard work has paid off.”