The Nugget Newspaper - News and Opinion from Sisters, Oregon

A fundraiser self-defense class for the Rich Hummel family will be held Saturday, November 16 at 10 a.m., at Sweat PNW, 392 W. Main Ave.

Hummel went in for a routine inguinal hernia surgery in October, but his recovery did not go as expected. He was taken back to the hospital, where it was discovered that he had a small perforation in his colon, leading to an infection in his abdomen. Due to complications he was taken back in for a second, then a third surgery. His wife, Beth, spent three weeks with him in the hospital and both of their jobs were put on hold.

“The ultimate mission of Sweat PNW is to help support the community by offering monthly fundraising events at the gym,” said gym owner Ashlee Francis. “Rich and Beth are the first to offer their support and help for others in need. They are a very important and special part of the Sisters community. This is an opportunity for us to come together and give back to them in their time of need.”

The fundraiser will be a two-hour self-defense class led by Sherri Hermens. Twenty-two years ago, Sherri started taking taekwondo with her children to help build character and self-esteem. Her zeal for the practice expanded and she became certified and began teaching taekwondo and self-defense in Central Oregon. She has become very passionate about “giving simple tools to others to increase self-awareness and, if need be, defend themselves.” Her approach to teaching is very hands-on.

“Everyone will be practicing what they learn,” Hermens said about the class. “Self-defense is usually targeted towards just women. I do feel there are important things in this class for men as well. After all, women are not the only people who get targeted.”

“Please join us this Saturday for an opportunity to add to your tool belt while giving back to the Hummels,” Francis said.

Class size is limited to 15 people, but you don’t have to attend to contribute to the fundraiser. Donations can be made at Sweat PNW or Green Ridge Physical Therapy. Sign up online at http://www.sweatpnw.com. Email Ashlee Francis with any questions about the event or future fundraisers at [email protected]