Fighting Breast Cancer with Barbells: Barbells for Boobs Founder Zionna Hanson PH127

Summary: Five years ago, our family first gathered around the living room on Christmas, put on our favorite holiday movies, and took turns rowing until we reached a marathon 42,195 meters. Over the years, what started as a small way to stay active and spend time together during the holidays has grown into a worldwide fundraising event. Last year, we had teams from across the globe competing in support of a charity run by Danis family, Educar es Avanzar.<br> <br> This year, were choosing to raise money for Barbells for Boobs an incredible organization that works hard to improve the quality of life of those diagnosed with breast cancer. Breast cancer has hit our family in a big way over the past couple of years, with my Aunt Nancy currently in remission and Danis mom, Barbara, just recently diagnosed and beginning her treatment. We know personally how difficult it can be to navigate this process, and want to give back to an organization that is working hard to make it easier for so many.<br> <br> As a part of this initiative, I was excited to speak with Zionna Hanson, the founder of Barbells for Boobs. Zionnas life has also been greatly impacted by breast cancer: in 2009, her best friend was diagnosed at the age of 26. Zionna rallied the CrossFit community to support her friend, and from that small event, Barbells for Boobs was born. Over the past 10 years Zionna has guided Barbells for Boobs as it has grown into a global movement. What started as a nonprofit with a focus on funding mammograms has evolved into an organization dedicated to providing community and resources after diagnosis through fitness.<br> <br> Zionna and I caught up to chat about the challenges breast cancer patients face, what donors should look for in a nonprofit theyre choosing to support, and the importance of being open to opportunities for evolution, change and growth.