Maya Chernichan
WINNIPEG — While some find their strength in the gym, others find it among loved ones and through the support of others.
That’s what Maya Chernichan, a Winnipeg toddler battling cancer, has discovered after tens of thousands of dollars have been raised in her fight against ALL (acute lymphoblastic leukaemia) through The Dream Factory.
Maya, who turns three in June, was diagnosed last summer and has undergone several rounds of chemotherapy, but her road to recovery isn’t over yet.
A fundraiser, Deadlifts for Dreams, has more than doubled its initial goal of $10,000 since it launched in February, with no signs of slowing down. At now more than $20,000, deadlifters and community members have been doing their part to make Maya’s dreams come true, which include one day visiting Disney World.
“They are so competitive,” says Dave Beakley, owner of Midtown Barbell and organizer of the fundraiser. “They’re already in competition mode and the top fundraiser switches back and forth every day as they try to stay on top. It’s great.”
Beakley approached The Dream Factory with the idea of hosting a deadlifting competition in Maya’s honour. Support quickly rallied around the idea and the competition is set for Saturday, March 30 at the gym, 349 Wardlaw Avenue.
Lifting starts at 10:30 a.m. with awards and speeches at approximately 1 p.m. The event is open to the public, and all money raised will go towards making Maya’s dream come true. To donate, visit DeadliftsforDreams.ca.
