The SMC Stands Up to Cancer club's third annual Zumbathon took over Angela Athletic Facility on Saturday, welcoming zumba instructors, vendors, alumnae and College supporters to campus.
Saint Mary’s alumna and College zumba instructor Kimmi Troy originally started the event, senior president of SMC Stands Up to Cancer Christie Hutch said. Troy contacted the club and wanted to donate the profits of the event to charity.
“It makes sense for us to do something that promotes good health for all ages as we raise funds for cancer research,” Hutch said.
Twenty local zumba instructors attended the event, Hutch said. Vendors and others connected to the College came from the South Bend area to participate, including "Eve of Eden Organic Body Care, DoTerra Essential Oils, Beyond Zen Studio, ‘Zumba’ brand clothing, ‘31’ Bags, NaturAvila Skin Care Line and Gypsy Mind Jewelry,” she said.
At intermission, Bellacapella, jazz and hip-hop group Troop ND and the Irish dance team performed, junior Leah Ramaekers said.
“I really enjoyed the performances,” Ramaekers said. "… I thought it added a fun element to the Zumbathon and a much needed exercise break."
In total, 280 people attended the event and $2 thousand was raised for Stand Up to Cancer, Hutch said.
“I think this event is important because throughout the year, our club raises funds and awareness for Stand Up to Cancer, but it is always really special when students from all three campuses can come together with the community for an event,” she said. “It was great to see everyone dancing for a common cause — zumba novices, zumba professionals and everything in between.”
Ramaekers said she most enjoyed seeing the variety of people fighting for the same cause.
“My favorite part of the night was seeing people of different ages, children and grandmothers, giving Zumba their all,” Ramaekers said. “I also love that so many people come with a cause in mind. There was a team of women who came to Zumba for a particular person which I thought was super cool. I can't wait for next year's Zumbathon so it can keep growing and getting better.”
Hutch said she is involved in the club because she believes students can make a difference through the student group. Hutch said Stand Up to Cancer is a remarkable organization.
“Stand Up to Cancer is unique in its research methods,” Hutch said. “They have dream teams of top researchers who work on finding a cure for all types of cancer, not just the most common or devastating.”
Hutch said anyone who has ever been affected by cancer in one way or another is in support of this cause and the Saint Mary’s Stand Up to Cancer club.
“Something I tell club members all the time is that ‘you are where the end of cancer begins,’ and I truly believe that,” Hutch said. “Every dime makes a difference, and we are so appreciative of the support we received at this year's zumbathon.”
