Dear Members of our Breathe Family,

I find myself in a familiar position, searching for words strong enough to convey my deepest gratitude to you. This week was very inspiring for Breathe and I want to thank all who participated. As everyone is aware, our community suffered an unimaginable tragedy recently with the senseless taking of the life of a beloved young lady, Chelsea King.

We felt the need to provide some basic information to our “family” in order to help try to prevent this type of thing from happening again. We partnered with Joe and Barbara Kotcher of Kotcher Kempo Karate in Ramona. They, along with their top students Sammi and Dawn, held two ninety minute informational workshops. The cost to attend was $5 with 100% of the money collected going to the Chelsea Light Foundation. Joe and Barbara refused to take any money for their time and efforts. The classes were well attended and extremely beneficial to all who participated. Thank you Joe, Barbara, Sammi, and Dawn, you helped many of us realize how to not be a victim. The two classes combined raised $350 which I will be proud to donate. If there is interest, Joe has agreed to offer self defense sessions at Breathe. Please let us know your thoughts.

I was recently informed by Jackie Shillington, one of our popular RPM and Body Pump instructors that she was diagnosed with Breast Cancer. It struck me as odd because to look at Jackie is like looking at the picture of health. What is even more amazing is Jackie’s demeanor. She is doggedly determined to fight with all of her might and beat this thing. And you were able to let her know that she has a family of support in her corner. When Jackie asked if we could help her sister who is struggling to raise the required donations in order to walk in the Avon Two Day Breast Cancer walk, we of course agreed. On Saturday, March 27, we held a fund raiser on Jackie’s behalf. There was an RPM class followed by a Body Pump class, and then an additional RPM class. Spots in each class were available for a $15 donation. In addition silent auction items were offered.

It was no surprise to me that Pat, Nuie, Mike, Jim, Steve, Ana and Lauren volunteered. They always are the first ones who can be counted on whenever there is a worthy cause. In addition, Lauran and Marianne came through with much of the behind the scenes organizing. Newcomers Colleen, Sammi, Rori and Janel provided additional support. And of course what brought the whole event together was the participation and heartfelt generosity of you, our members. We raised over $1100 so far. It must have been comforting for Jackie to know that she is so cared for and supported here by her “other family”. Jackie looked radiant the entire day which is not easy to do after three back-to-back exercise classes. The event was a smashing success, and I knew it would be once Lauren Schroeder agreed to oversee it.

Thank you so much to all who supported this event. Several members were only able to offer donations while others participated in one, two or all three classes. Our tireless instructors showed their true colors by looking great and inspiring you to get in the fight on Jackie’s behalf. All in all it was deeply moving to attend this special event. The auction items will be on display this week. Please bid on them as 100% of what is collected will be forwarded to Jackie’s sister. Thank you for coming out and for your generous donations.

On a lighter note, Breathe will be closed Sunday, April 4th in observance of Easter. Normal schedule will resume on Monday, April 5th. Thank you again for all of your support and generosity. I never get tired of bragging about the fact that Breathe Fitness has the best members of any Club anywhere. You continue to make my case for me. You are the salt of the earth and we are blessed to have you as members, staff and instructors.
Amy & Randy

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