Over 60 people of all ages gave of their time and energy on Saturday, Feb. 27 to show their support and ‘get their sweat on’ at Oakdale MMA Academy.
The special event this past Saturday saw the local mixed martial arts venue partner with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to support fundraising efforts for Jasslynn Diaz and fulfilling her ‘wish.’ The four-year-old is currently battling optical cancer. Funds raised through the event were to go toward her wish of a Disneyland trip with her family.
A goal of $7,500 was set for the event. Oakdale MMA joined forces with local businesses as well as instructors and supportive community members to make the child’s dream a reality. Over $10,200 was collected as a result of their efforts.
“It’s the community,” Lori Theofanopoulos of Oakdale MMA said. “I have to thank this community. Oakdale always pulls together.
“From the local businesses to people who aren’t even members, so many have donated,” she continued. “I have to especially mention Cocina Michoacana, they did so much for us. Twenty percent of their sales were donated and today they donated food.”
Also adding to the success was a local pizzeria.
“Mountain Mike’s here in Oakdale was also a huge help,” Theofanopoulos shared of the overwhelming support. “They donated the pizzas so that people had plenty to eat all day.”
During the eight-hour event members of the gym, as well as guests, were treated to multiple classes and demonstrations offered by Oakdale MMA.
“Our goal was $7500,” Theofanopoulos continued. “We made our goal. She gets her wish! Now the money left over will go toward another child.”