Thon Express

Pat Taggart

Pat, mayor of Orbisonia PA, regrettably graduated PSU in 2007. But why regrettably? It is because in his senior year his life was changed by THON. His senior year, Pat joined the Mighty Duckers. The most hardcore morale team Thon ‘07 had. During the year he loved every aspect of Thon from hearing the change clink in the bottom of the cans to carrying dancers on his back during those final hours, and as those final hours wound down Pat’s life was changed. So one year later and wanting to continue his participation in Thon, Pat was lucky enough to become a part of Thon Express. Consequently, just as Thon changed so many things in Pat’s life, Thon Express changed why he runs. In each step of those 135 miles the message of FTK and the preciousness of the package they carried resounded true. There were so many amazing memories in TE’08 from the night time blizzard to that final mile run together onto the stage, Pat is immeasurable grateful to have this opportunity again. To meet the children and families at Hershey medical and have the honor to carry their words to the Thon Dancers is simply humbling; so Pat cant wait to run those late night miles under the glow of Hummer headlights. TE ’08 showed Pat how 16 people can become amazing friends in just 24 hours and accomplish something incredible at the same time. He is sure that TE ’09 will leave him with many more amazing Thon memories. GO TEAM JAZZ HANDS! FTK 4 LIFE!!!