At the age of four Annie Underhill was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia; she endured chemotherapy and eventually overcame it.
Later on, the 17 year-0ld high school student would be diagnosed with eosinophilic fasciitis, an inflammation and thickening of the skin and fascia. She requires medication, regular bloodwork and MRI’s to monitor her condition.
The duration of Underhill’s treatment is indefinite.
The teen was among the dozens of dancers who strutted their stuff to raise funds for CHEO at the second annual dance marathon Jan. 31.
Algonquin’s team raised the second most money- more than $3,000.
Underhill believes that fundraising is important, explaining that CHEO’s other fundraisers are aimed at different demographic and that the dance marathon is geared towards the college and university age group.
Participants from Algonquin agree that the event isn’t just about fundraising but also about spreading awareness. Participating in the event was a reward in itself, because it’s such a great time.
“I’ve met great people,” said Caitlin Lee. “It makes me feel like I’ve just done something good!”
Lee raised money for the marathon by holding pub nights at The Observatory, as well as talking at Student Commons and sharing on social media.
“It feels good, giving back,” said Laura Mayo. “It’s a good thing to do for other people.”
Mayo’s connection to CHEO is through her sister, who is a patient at the dentistry unit due to a cleft pallet. Mayo fundraised through social media by asking people to donate money in person.
To date the event has raised $57,744 for CHEO.