STATE COLLEGE, Pa. -- Families affected by cancer are coming together with thousands of student volunteers, this weekend at Penn State University, to raise money for the fight against cancer.

Thon 2008 lasts through Sunday.

People filled the floor of the Bryce Jordan Center, passing the time with dancing, games of catch and conversation.

It was the first Thon for 5-year-old Caleb Deckman, who was diagnosed with cancer last year.

"It's been great," said Caleb's dad, Mike Deckman. "It's amazing to come here and see that everyone is like one big family."

Caleb's health is back to normal and his parents say Thon may become an annual tradition.

"I think we're going to keep on coming back," said Caleb's mom, Lori Deckman. "Caleb is really enjoying himself."

Thon organizers said they hoped to raise more money than last year's event, which raised $5 million.