The spirit of public service was plainly evident in the enthusiasm of the seven eighth grade Salisbury Middle School students who April 18 presented a check for $11,458 to support Lehigh Valley Health Network's Prager Cancer Patient Assistance Fund.

The funds were raised by Interact Club student members who hosted a 24-hour dance-a-thon held March 20 at the middle school.

The Prager Cancer Patient Assistance Fund supports cancer patients for non-medical expenses like transportation to and from doctor's appointments, telephone bills, home heating and other services that could improve a patient's quality of life. The fund is named in memory of the late Dr. David Prager, a renowned Lehigh Valley oncologist credited with raising this area's level of cancer care to national standards. Prager died in June, 2010, at age 78 after a long battle with Parkinson's disease, a degenerative nervous system disorder.

The 135-or-so dance marathon attendees paid a $30 registration fee, and many raised additional funds by collecting pledges for the 24-hour dance event.

Basketball competitions and "lots and lots of food" kept the students occupied during the event said club President Paige Nicholas. While some food items were offered for sale, most were donated by business sponsors, parents and family members.

A flat screen television, an iPod and a Nook reader were among items donated as prizes for the dance competition events.

This is the second year for the dance marathon. Last year the Interact Club raised about $11,000.