When SimplyHome was contacted by the Eblen Foundation to talk with Susan Chisholm, we welcomed the opportunity.  Shannon, a local athlete, wife and mother, was paralyzed last July when she was struck from behind by a vehicle while training on her bicycle.  As a result of the accident, Shannon’s life has changed significantly.  Medical bills need to be paid, and her home needs to be accessible so she can meet her basic needs.

Area fitness clubs are joining together to host the Chisholm Challenge, a fundraising event created to support Shannon Chisholm, a local athlete and mother who was paralyzed in a cycling accident in July 2011.    The event will run from Friday evening, January 27 through Saturday evening, January 28, 2012.

The Chisholm Challenge was designed not only to raise funds to offset the costs of Shannon’s medical bills but also to promote awareness of the benefits of fitness and exercise.  “Shannon’s athleticism and determination are such an inspiration.  We are honored to come together to support Shannon and hope we will inspire others in this community to get active,” noted Jolene Puffer of Real Fitness for Life, one of the organizers of the challenge.

The 2 day event will begin with a Friday evening yoga class from 4-8pm at Sun Soo TaeKwando and end with a Saturday Night Zumba Party from 4-8pm at the Asheville Racquet Club’s downtown location in the Crowne Plaza.

Throughout the day Saturday, events at several fitness clubs will be open to nonmembers who purchase the red Chisholm Challenge wrist bands.

Wrist bands are $10 and may be purchased at the following locations:  Asheville Fitness Club, Asheville Racquet Club, The Body Shop Fitness Center, LT’s Primal Fitness, 03 Health and Fitness, The Rush and Sun-Soo TaeKwondo.   Wrist bands will also be sold at the door of the Friday night yoga event and the Saturday evening Zumba Party.

SimplyHome was honored to be a part of the planning team for this event.  We would like to thank all the local fitness centers who have contributed so much time and energy to make this fundraiser possible.  We hope you will join us in supporting Shannon by taking part in Chisholm Challenge!