The leader of any great organization must possess an unmatched drive and dedication to the group’s mission.
For University of Alabama Dance Marathon President Eric Ward, his passion for the student-run organization derives from firsthand experience of what Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals can do to support patients and their families.
As a child, Ward was admitted to Children’s of Alabama with a severe case of pneumonia. While any family in this situation would be worried, the stress on Ward’s family was amplified because his aunt died of pneumonia years earlier.
“For my mom, the thought of losing her child to the same thing that took her sister was terrifying,” said Ward. “The situation allowed me to see how Children’s not only helped with my treatment, but helped my mom through an emotional time.”
When Ward started UA, he was a biology major who wanted to go into pediatric care. As a freshman, a mentor told him about UADM and he was immediately intrigued because of his personal and, at the time, career connections to the organization’s cause.
Ward eventually switched his major to marketing but his passion for UADM has continued throughout his time at the University. During his involvement, he has been a member of the group’s Morale Committee and held the positions of color captain, vice president of operations and now president.
“Being part of UADM has allowed me to grow as a leader,” said Ward. “I love having the opportunity to talk to others and hear their connection to our cause. Knowing what this organization means to our Miracle Families, student members and the community as a whole really keeps me going.”
While Ward had his personal reasons for joining UADM, building relationships with the group’s Miracle Families provides a motivation that he says is indescribable.
“I can’t put into words what it means to connect with our Miracle Families and not only hear their stories, but to have them tell you how much you’ve impacted them,” said Ward. “It’s a tremendous feeling.”
As he prepares for his last Main Event on Saturday, Ward hopes the efforts of UADM will continue to grow and that its members and supporters will not forget the many lives, like his own, the cause can touch.
“These kids are so much more than their illness and it’s amazing to see how we, as college students, can make a lasting impact on their lives,” said Ward.