Zumba event at Morey Courtsdraws 120, raises $800 for breast cancer in mid-Michigan

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Three of Linda Bennett’s co-workers have been diagnosed with breast cancer in the last eight months.

The Mount Pleasant resident said this was her inspiration for attending Sunday night’s Zumbathon, a celebration focusing on the popular aerobic-exercising Latin dance.

“I’m here to support them mentally and physically. We (co-workers) try to do as much as we possibly can to help out,” she said. “When we learned the money went straight to the women in mid-Michigan, we knew instantly this was a great idea.”

The Zumbathon brought 120 participants and six instructors to Morey Courts, 5175 E. Remus Road.

Participants came for many great reasons, said Amy Perschbacher, a Zumba instructor.

“Women were taught how important fitness is for their health,” she said, “and how they can prevent breast cancer.”

Bennett teaches in the Clare-Gladwin Regional Education Service District and many of her fellow teachers have purchased shirts to support their friends. On certain days, the whole staff wears their shirts to show the three ladies they always have helping and caring friends, Bennett said.

She said everyone needs to be cautious about what their bodies are going through and even younger girls need to start checking themselves for breast cancer.

“I never imagined all three ladies having to go through this,” she said. “It just shows that breast cancer runs in families and it’s not something to ignore.”

This was the third Zumbathon the instructors have put on, Perschbacher said. The event raised $800 for the Mid-Michigan Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure, which directly supports women in the area.

Mount Pleasant freshman Katrina Ritchey said seeing all of the women participating Sunday night was inspirational and fun.

“Dance can bring so many people together,” Ritchey said. “Having a room full of supporters makes everything so much more fun.”

Some Zumba lovers gathered to support the cause and to enjoy another class during the week.

Kim Klumpp, a Mount Pleasant resident who referred to herself as a Zumba addict, saw the fundraiser as an added bonus.

“One of my friends recently had one of her breasts removed due to cancer so I’m out here supporting her and showing my love for Zumba.”

Dancing and having fun while rasing money was a successful task for everyone who attended.

“I love this idea because Zumba is so different than just regular exercising, you actually get to stand up and dance,” Ritchey said. “With all of the ladies out here, we are helping make a difference.”