My Gym Westchase Lends a Helping Hand

Fun with a purpose was the case at My Gym Westchase on Saturday.

The facility's owner and staff hosted an open house fundraiser in honor of Jaxson White, a five year old boy diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia.

Since his diagnosis in 2009, Jaxson's mother Rachelle White has been working to help her son, including participating in Mayor's Half Marathon in Anchorage, Alaska, to raise money for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Over $4,000 was raised in honor of Jaxson, thanks to generous donations of family and friends.

But White prayed for more.

Her prayers were answered by My Gym Westchase owner Mary Miller, who organized the open house fundraiser on Saturday.

Although she has worked with many students over the years, she fondly remembers working with Jaxson White.

“When he joined, he was a cute, bashful boy, but opened up and made progress," Miller said. "He is a wonderful little boy.”

Open house goers were encouraged to contribute a $5 donation towards the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Membership incentives, such as discounts on family registration and extra weeks of membership, were offered to attendees.

With games, activities and upbeat songs such as “Electric Slide,” it was a fun-filled day, with nothing but smiles. The children’s energy and excitement during the bubble activity was one of the highlights.

My Gym specializies in children’s fitness through structured, age-appropriate classes while incorporating music, dance, relays, special rides and games, gymnastics and more. The most popular age group is infant through preschool, but My Gym works with children ranging from 6 weeks to thirteen years old.

“Seeing smiles on their faces, seeing what they accomplish, is amazing. That’s what it’s all about,” said James Dunford, lead teacher and 12 year employee of My Gym.

The staff provides individual attention and encouragement to each child in a non-competitive environment.

“Other gyms didn’t take care of my son the way My Gym does," said My Gym member AJ Swick. "The children are treated wonderfully."

Miller, who currently manages the gym from Virginia, began her career as a gymnastics coach. Opening My Gym Westchase allowed her to combine her favorite aspects of coaching and gymnastics.

"Jaxson is now in outpatient treatment, but continues to fight for his life on a daily basis," said Miller.

Although he is unable to attend My Gym at this time, he's never far from their hearts.

“He is still part of the My Gym family,” said My Gym teacher Jen Pienkowski.