Guy Harvey is a miracle child.
His mother, Amanda Harvey, had him 24 weeks into her pregnancy. He weighted 1 pound, 10 ounces and had a 10 percent chance of survival.
Yesterday, the 3-year-old was smiling and chasing a ball in Randolph-Macon College's Brock Center.
At the annual Macon Miracles dance marathon, R-MC students and volunteers celebrated stories such as Guy's and raised money for research, treatment, equipment and education for children who suffer from terminal illness, serious disease, birth defects and severe trauma.
The all-day event included nonstop dancing, Wii bowling, dodge ball and other games for children and the students.
The top of each hour featured a child or family member speaking about their experiences.
Harvey shared her son's story. She talked about how treatment at Children's Hospital has helped Guy grow up healthier. He has been taught to learn how to eat and has been coached to improve his speaking, she said.
Guy still visits the clinic regularly to get a weight check, but he doesn't have a lot of the problems that premature children have, said Harvey.
"We are very blessed, very fortunate," she said. "He is definitely a miracle baby."
Coming to the event, she said was "my way of saying thanks. As he grows up and doesn't need the services, there are other children who do."
Kate Savage, a student volunteer, said she hopes the contributions will continue to help local children such as Guy.
"Our goal is to help raise money so hospitals can continue to provide programs for people," she said.
The event has raised more than $150,000 since its beginning in 2002. The funds go to Richmond-area Children's Miracle Network facilities, including the VCU Children's Medical Center and Children's Hospital.
Last year, the event raised more than $17,000, said event organizer Nicole Benitez, a senior majoring in international relations. This year, despite the economic downturn, the group expected to raise about the same amount, she said.
As many as 400 students volunteer for the daylong fundraiser, and it's one of the school's most well-attended events, she said.
"I get so much more from doing this than any other activity on campus. It is not just for your own satisfaction," Benitez said.
Contact Luz Lazo at (804) 649-6058 or llazo@timesdispatch.com.
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