Jagathon raises nearly $14,000 for Children's Hospital of Georgia
By Davis T. Harley | Staff writer
Augusta University students came together Saturday for Jagathon, the annual dance and fundraising event hosted by Jaguar Miracle to benefit the Children’s Hospital of Georgia. The six-hour event raised $13,857.19, bringing in student leaders from nearly every organization on campus.
For many participants, the cause was personal. Brendan Herring, a member of Pi Kappa Phi, shared why Jagathon holds special meaning for him.
“Being a NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) baby for the first three months of my life, I look forward to Jaguar Miracle each year. Raising money for the same place that kept me alive is something I’m proud to do,” Herring said. “It brings good people together to help kids who are less fortunate than ourselves.”
Throughout the night, attendees heard firsthand from families who have benefited from the hospital’s care. Among them was Phillip, a 5-year-old born with multiple critical heart defects discovered during a routine prenatal scan. Thanks to treatment at Augusta University’s Children’s Hospital, he is now thriving.
His parents, longtime supporters of fundraising efforts like Jagathon, first met at a dance marathon at the University of Michigan.
Jenny Canino, co-membership director of Jaguar Miracle, emphasized the impact of these donations.
“Jaguar Miracle is so important because all year long, we raise money for the Children’s Hospital of Georgia, allowing kids to receive treatment in one place instead of traveling between hospitals,” Canino said.
John Blalock, a member of Delta Chi, echoed the event’s significance.
“Jagathon is something I look forward to every year because of how meaningful it is,” Blalock said. “Hearing these kids’ stories firsthand hits close to home, and knowing our fundraising goes directly to them makes this event so special.”
Beyond fundraising, Jagathon kept students engaged with competitions and activities throughout the night, encouraging more donations. By the end of the event, Jaguar Miracle and Augusta University students had once again made a tangible difference for children and families in need.
Contact Davis T. Harley at dharley@augusta.edu.
