For Carson Dalaska ’27, St. Ambrose University Dance Marathon is more than just a student organization – it’s family.
Since 2012, SAU Dance Marathon has raised over $2 million for the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital, supporting dozens of local families whose children received care there. In 2014, Dalaska was one of them.
At six years old, he was admitted to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at Stead Children’s with severe swelling in his throat. His airway was dangerously restricted, and he was placed in an induced coma and intubated for a week.
Doctors diagnosed Dalaska with tracheomalacia, a condition that causes the trachea to collapse easily, and airway stenosis, a narrowing of the airway. It’s something he still manages today, with a lingering cough. But he’s grateful for the care he received and the support his family found during that difficult time.
Support also came from an unexpected place: St. Ambrose Dance Marathon.
“Growing up, they were a big part of my family’s life,” Dalaska said, referring to the many volunteers from Dance Marathon who attended his basketball games, celebrated his milestones, and showed up when it mattered most. “It showed that someone cared and acknowledged that we went through a hardship. That support meant so much to me and my family.”
Now, over a decade later, Dalaska is on the other side, serving as a volunteer and member of the Entertainment and Logistics Committee.
“Being part of Dance Marathon as a volunteer is about giving back,” he said. “When I was a kid, they always showed up for me. Now, it’s my turn to show up for other kids who need someone there for them.”
Dalaska’s committee is responsible for planning the organization’s 13.1-hour “Big Event,” the culmination of the year’s efforts where students and volunteers come together to celebrate the funds raised for sick and injured kids treated in Iowa City. His team helps book entertainment, coordinate catering, and transform the event space with colorful, elaborate decorations.
His decision to join Dance Marathon as a college student was deeply personal.
“I’ve been a part of Dance Marathon since I was about nine or ten years old, and it’s always been a huge part of who I am,” he said. “It’s shaped how I see the world.”
Dalaska says his experience as a Miracle Kid has given him a unique sense of gratitude and empathy.
“I try to make sure I’m always nice to people. I’m a very optimistic person. Things can always be worse. Seeing what some of the kids go through reminds me that life is a blessing. It’s taught me to make every moment count.”
He hopes others who are interested in joining Dance Marathon have the courage to sign up and see how meaningful the experience can be.
“It’s about something bigger than yourself - it’s a chance to help kids and families who need it most,” he said. “You might not know a lot of people at first, but you’ll make friends, and it’ll be a positive experience.”
Dalaska is currently studying finance and accounting through the Patricia VanBruwaene College of Business at St. Ambrose. His journey from Miracle Kid to Dance Marathon volunteer reflects a desire to give back, a thoughtful outlook shaped by challenge, and a strong sense of purpose he plans to carry into his future career.
