This October, we're teaming up with Hope Chest Buffalo to make a real impact on the lives of breast cancer survivors. Created through the incredible friendship and shared passion for fitness between its founder and her dear friend Nina, Hope Chest has been a beacon of hope since its inception in January 2000.

Nina's unwavering determination, even in the face of a breast cancer diagnosis, was truly inspiring. Together, they crafted a wellness program that defied conventional wisdom. Dr. Don McKenzie's groundbreaking research shattered the myth that upper body exercises should be avoided by breast cancer survivors. Instead, they discovered that specific movements could actually reduce the risk of lymphedema, a debilitating condition that can follow breast cancer treatment.

 Enter dragon boat racing! This unique sport proved to be a game-changer, targeting the muscle groups that benefit breast cancer survivors the most. Dr. McKenzie's work led to the creation of the world's first all-breast-cancer-survivor dragon boat team, Abreast-In-A-Boat.

Although Nina lost her battle with breast cancer just months before the Hope Chest Team's first race, her legacy lives on. Her dream of empowering breast cancer survivors to lead active, unrestricted lives continues to shine brightly, embodied in the name 'Luminina,' which means 'Light of Nina.'

This October, let's join hands and paddle forward together, making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by breast cancer. For the month of October, Catalyst Fitness has a number of opportunities for our members to make donations to Hope Chest Buffalo. To start, a portion of the enrollment of every membership sold in October will be donated to the Hope Chest Buffalo. We will also be donating $2 from every Strawberry Shortcake Shake sold throughout the month. 

Catalyst Fitness will also be holding a Dollar Per Rep Challenge. Visit your home club’s front desk and mention the Dollar Per Rep Challenge, you will receive a ribbon, write down the name of the Catalyst Employee you’d like to challenge, write down the exercise you’d like them to participate in, and the dollar amount you donate.

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