It's been just over a year now, since we launched our instructor certification training. I must say that God continues to move in ways that we could've never imagined.
We had no idea at that time, if anyone would really understand what we do, let alone decide to join us on this journey of faith. One year later, we have grown from a team with less than a handful of instructors to almost 100.
One of our most cherished memories from last year was our trip to Cleveland, Tennessee - where we met & trained a group of amazing ladies including Jennifer Rogers and Stacey Jones.
Without any prompting from us, they decided to host the first official Shazzy Pink Out in Church Hill, TN at their home church. In the middle of trying to keep our business alive and grow our brand new instructor program, it was an idea that hadn't even dawned on me. But once I saw what the had done and how enthusiastic their group was, I couldn't believe I hadn't thought of it sooner.
As I write this, I remember a time when I was growing up, when it seemed that breast cancer was so far removed from my immediate family. I don't even recall hearing the term until much later in my teens, when it was revealed that my grandmother had the disease. At that time I really didn't understand the concept of cancer. I knew it wasn't good, but I didn't know it could be fatal. Thankfully, my grandmother overcame the disease after a full mastectomy.
20 years later, my closest aunt was also diagnosed with breast cancer. I was devastated. She had gone through chemotherapy 10 years earlier to treat the disease, and were sure she had it beat. But it had come back. She was a fighter, and was determined to not let it bring her spirits down. In the end though, she fought the good fight and went home to be with the Lord.
So as a woman with what one might call a notable history of breast cancer in her family, I'd be lying if I didn't admit that the thought of it creeps into my head - probably more than most. Thankfully, I am blessed to have several friends who have lived through the chemo, hair loss, and ultimately recovery. These ladies are my heroes!
This October is dedicated to them and the thousands of other women who have been affected by this disease. We have several instructors this year in various states from Florida, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas and Louisiana, who have decided to support this cause by teaching Shazzy "Pink Out" classes in their community, and donating the funds to their local breast cancer awareness charities including Susan G. Komen and the American Cancer Society. Even though I won't be physically teaching Shazzy classes, I know my mom, grandmother and aunt are smiling in heaven because this year I've officially joined the fight.
Are you a Breast Cancer survivor? If so, we'd love to hear from you and maybe even feature your testimony on our blog.
Please post a comment here or email us at weHeart@shazzyfitness.com.
Kristy McCarley is Founder and CEO of Shazzy Fitness. She writes blog articles about faith, dance, exercise, fitness and wellness. Click here to subscribe to our newsletter!