“Dancing with the Stars” is a hugely popular show here on KAMC. Did you know there is a similar dancing competition right here in the Hub City?
Derek Johnston is one of the professional dancers, and has been volunteering his time for the show for six years now. His dance partner this year, Holly Richardson is ready to learn all those ballroom moves.
“I have never ballroom danced, I’ve country danced if that counts, I’m new to the whole experience,” said Richardson.
Johnston said, “We’ll spend the first month or so just learning the dance. That’s something I pride myself on. When you’re done you’ll actually know how to do the particular dance which is pretty cool,” said Johnston.
They’ll have plenty of time to perfect all their moves because the gala isn’t until April.
We caught up with Ryan Reagor who danced in last year’s competition. He’s got some advice for all the newcomers.
“Just make it fun. Make the experience fun. Look forward to it. Let it grow you. Enjoy it because it’s a good cause. You’re going to learn something, and you’re going to enjoy it.”
The star of the show though, will also take a spin on the dance floor with his mom.
Zach Wilkinson is a cancer survivor. He’ll get the chance to tell his story, and make a special memory to last a lifetime.
“No kid should have to go through cancer and chemo, and not have fun with it at all. So Make-A-Wish lets the kids have fun when they need it,” said Wilkinson.
Dancers aren’t the only ones working ahead of time.There is a big group of people working behind the scenes to make sure this night is spectacular. Organizer, Lee Williams said “It helps children with life threatening illnesses to really be able to do something that they normally wouldn’t be able to do. Through the process they are healed through being able to go on trips and have something to be able to look forward to.”
All the money raised at the gala next spring, will stay right here on the South Plains to grant as many wishes as possible.