Ladera Ranch Student Helps Raise Millions For Charity

LADERA RANCH, CA — A Ladera Ranch high school graduate is one of over 1,700 University of Iowa students who raised nearly $3 million in financial support for a children's hospital fundraiser.

Ava Johnson was one of nearly 2,000 who raised almost $3 million in financial support for the UI Stead Family Children's Hospital as participants in the 25th annual UI Dance Marathon.

During the event, that was held over Feb. 1-2 at the Iowa Memorial Union, student participants unveiled the total of $2,960,403.25, which supports pediatric oncology patients and their families at the hospital and advances cancer research.

"This past year was the 25th annual Dance Marathon in which we were able to raise $2.96 million for our kids and families that we support. Over our 25 year history, we have raised a grand total of $27,508,627.59 all For The Kids (FTK)," the university spokesperson said. "At this event, we celebrate pediatric cancer survivors, honor and remember the children who have passed away, and come together to fight alongside those who are currently battling cancer."

In addition to raising money, the event celebrates the lives of survivors and recognizes those lost.

Dance Marathon is the UI's largest student organization. It has raised almost $28 million since its first event in 1995.

See more photos of the Dance Marathon 2019, here.