Hello! My name is Alex Kirkeeng! I am a recent graduate of the University of Illinois, as well as a fourth year member of the Marching Illini. I speak on behalf of the MI Sousaphone section, which has been mulling over the idea of a philanthropy event as a section for a while now.



Somehow, it was decided that the only way we could give back...is to run a 5k while wearing our instruments.



Friday, April 24th, as a part of the 5k portion of the Illinois Marathon, a half dozen or so Marching Illini Sousaphone members, myself included, will be, one way or another, running approximately 3.1 miles with our instruments on our shoulders. For those who don't know, the Sousaphone is the marching tuba: about 20 to 30 extra pounds of wind resistent, cumbersome power. It might be rough, but we'll make it fun all the same.



What we would like is to be doing this for a cause! So it's been decided that we will be asking for donations and pledges towards our completion of this endeavor. Every dollar donated is being donated to an awesome non-profit organization called Notes 4 Cancer, which helps children with cancer and their families via financial aid and emotional support through music. As an important part of the Marching Illini, we certainly know the incredible power that music can have on people, and we'd really like to help this organization that aims to use said power to help those that need it most.



Please, do what you can to help out. Every little bit helps. It certainly means a lot for those of us who are going to be working our tails off for April. If you can't support financially, PLEASE help spread the word, or come support us that Friday as we finally grow through with the feat. Thank you very much for your time. Go Illini!

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