Iron Legion Strength Company is different from many gyms. It's an incredible community where people constantly support and encourage each other, and that support goes far beyond the dumbbells. Six years ago, they started Operation Change, a deadlift competition to help Make-A-Wish grant wishes to critically ill children, and I'm incredibly excited to be able to participate in this year's competition/fundraiser!

A few years ago, I faced my own health challenges. Due to a genetic mutation, I was at high risk of developing breast cancer. After several scares, I made the proactive decision to undergo a prophylactic double mastectomy two years ago. Not long after, while addressing a back issue, it became clear that my core muscles weren't functioning as they should. My first reconstruction surgery turned into a more significant procedure than anticipated, including major abdominal muscle repair. As with many medical journeys, there were complications, and I had my third surgery a year ago this month.

Throughout my journey, despite several long absences, the support from Iron Legion was amazing. Even trainers I had never worked with checked in on me. My family went above and beyond to care for me, but my chosen family really stepped up as well. I truly believe my recovery wouldn't have been as successful without their endless encouragement and patience through all my sweat and tears.

I was fortunate to have the opportunity to get to choose to fight these battles, and it took every ounce of strength to push through. However, children facing critical illnesses don’t have that choice. They are thrust into a world of chaos, pain, and uncertainty, and "unfair" doesn’t begin to describe their situation.

"When a wish is granted, a child replaces fear with confidence, sadness with joy and anxiety with hope. The majority of wish kids go on to beat their critical illnesses, and research shows that a wish can help children build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight – giving them a better chance of surviving and thriving.

Every day, 70+ children are diagnosed with a critical illness and count on donors like us to help make their wish come true."

Last year, I stood in the crowd and cheered on my gym family as they worked together to raise an incredible $57,000. This year, our goal is to raise $75,000! I initially set my personal goal at $1,000, but I’ve since raised it to $1,500 to make up for having to sit out last year. I am incredibly grateful for any support you can provide as we work together to make a difference for these brave children.


Thank you!!