"I can and I will."
These words of inspiration were worn proudly by Hunterdon County YMCA staff and community members alike as they came together on Saturday, July 22 to raise funds and support at the Strong for Sam event, held at the Deer Path Branch of the YMCA.
Samantha (Sam) Ahimovic, an Adult Group Power and Tabata instructor at the HCY from 2010-2015, has been diagnosed with stage 4 kidney cancer. The Strong for Sam event was organized with the goal of raising money to help the Ahimovic family through this difficult time. Sam and her husband, Andrew, are raising 6-year old twins Jackson and Braydon, and a 3-year-old son Logan.
According to Teri Saccal, event organizer and Director of Healthy Living at the Y, "The support received from HCY staff was incredible. The extra work involved in this fundraiser was much more than one person could handle, and I received a great deal of help and guidance. I have personally been touched by this event. There are good people in this world and at this Y. I am so glad to have been able to experience that goodness."
Over two hundred people participated in the event and donated towards the Ahimovics' cause. Attendees participated in various group classes such as Groove/Zumba, Strength Train and "Cycling for Sam," as well as a Silent Auction.
Sam and her husband, also a member of the HCY family as a former youth coach, were surprised by the outpouring of support from the community. Sam was shocked by the magnitude of the event and the immensely positive energy that enveloped the fitness classes.
"I was happy to see so many smiles, positive energy and such great support for Sam," says Saccal. "We are the Hunterdon County YMCA, we are a community, we are a family, we support each other - that is what we do."
The HCY would like to thank everyone who participated in the event. Donations for the Ahimovic family will continue to be accepted at https://www.gofundme.com/SamanthaAhimovic, which was set up by members of Sam's family.