The cans have been put away, the phones are silent and the pledge sheets have been signed. Now, for 540 students, it's time to dance -- for the kids.

The 1993 Interfraternity Council/Panhellenic Dance Marathon, the nation's largest student-run philanthropy, takes over White Building this weekend.

Student voluteers will massage feet, mop foreheads, rub shoulders and encourage the dancers to meet their goals. But these people can't do it alone. Extensive support is needed to ensure the success of this year's dance marathon.

More than $4 million has been raised to provide additional funding to the Four Diamonds Fund of the University's Hershey Medical Center. It has, in turn, used the money to help children with cancer gain another chance to live to the fullest, and give their families reason to hope. For the dancers, it's two days of no sleep. But for a 9-year-old, it's the chance to play in another Little League game -- and hear the cheers from family and friends.

With each passing year, hundreds of thousands of dollars have been raised, more students have stayed on their feet and more children have been helped by the determination and dedication of the dancers.

But the financial bottom line is not necessarily what makes the marathon such a success. The spirit of the dancers, organizers and supporters is what makes this event so special.

And support from those not dancing -- the cheers, hugs and words of encouragement -- are an integral part of this weekend's morale. Sometimes just knowing that a friend is there to cheer them on inspires the dancers to overcome their fatigue and push on.

This weekend, brave the cold, snow and ice to stop by White Building and rub a dancer's shoulder, say hello or cheer as the final total is announced.

In the end there are no wrong reasons.