UA Miracle Sets Fundraising Record of $394,178 for Children’s of Alabama

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - UA Miracle, The University of Alabama's largest student-led organization, set a fundraising record by collecting $394,178 over the past year to support pediatric care at Children's of Alabama in Birmingham.

The record-setting amount was revealed following the group's annual BAMAthon event Feb. 28 at the UA Student Center. The 11-hour dance marathon celebrates the patients and families served by Children's of Alabama while raising funds for pediatric health care, research and family support services.

"This year's total means more than I could imagine," said Myles Hudson, UA Miracle president. "Not only is this a $170,000 increase from the previous year and set a new record by over $50,000, but it is so much more than numbers. This total allows Children's to provide countless miracles and comfort to children and families in Alabama.

"Our motto for the year was 'Make Your Mark,' and never did I imagine we would leave such a lasting legacy and mark this year."

BAMAthon participants engaged in programming that highlighted the mission and impact of UA Miracle, including Miracle Family speakers, interactive activities, performances a talent show featuring Miracle Kids and a closing celebration where the total funds raised throughout the year were revealed. More than 600 UA students participated in this year's event.

"I hope students gained an understanding of the importance of Children's of Alabama," Hudson said. "I hope they leave feeling like they have contributed to something larger than themselves, because at the end of the day, BAMAthon is about dancing for those who cannot."

UA Miracle hosts events throughout the year, such as fundraising nights at Tuscaloosa-area restaurants and theme days on the UA campus. The group has raised more than $3 million for Children's of Alabama since 2011.