Each of the estimated 2,000 women, men and children who will convene on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art Sunday morning, May 19, 2019 for Living Beyond Breast Cancer’s (LBBC) 18^th Annual Reach & Raise yoga event has a personal reason for being there.

For Toni Buck, 70, of Sellersville, PA, it’s being on the steps for the third time – but the first since her daughter was diagnosed with breast cancer just months before her wedding day;

For Kim Daniels, 43, of Chestnut Hill, PA, it’s a chance to be with a supportive community exactly one year from her last chemotherapy treatment, and realizing she’s not alone

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For all the participants who roll out their yoga mats and don their team gear to take part in Living Beyond Breast Cancer’s signature fundraiser, there’s meaning in helping LBBC reach its goal of $400,000 to connect half a million people a year to trusted information and a community of support. Through teams organized by individuals, co-workers, yoga studios and others to honor or remember family and friends, the event has raised more than $3 million since 2002.

Reach & Raise takes place rain or shine from 7:30 am to 12:30 pm. The highlight of the event is a one-hour mindful yoga class at 9:30 am for all ages and skill levels designed and led byReach & Raise Co-Founder Jennifer Schelter, MFA, a Yoga Alliance certified instructornamed “Best of Philly” Founder of the Radiant Retreat, with Kirtan accompaniment by Yvette Pecoraro and other area musicians. Following the class, participants enjoy refreshments while shopping and gathering resources at the Namaste Village featuring event sponsors, local area businesses, yoga studios and nonprofit organizations.

Participants who raise or donate $100 or more for LBBC will receive a “WITH YOU, FOR YOU” t-shirt designed especially for the event by Amberella, a celebrated Philadelphia and Los Angeles-based mixed media and street artist. Named 2016 Rad Girls Artist of the Year, Amber Lynn Thompson earned a BFA in Photography from the University of the Arts, and often draws inspiration from life experiences for Amberella.  This design honors family members who have been affected by breast cancer, Thompson said. “Since I do know so many women that have been affected by breast cancer, I want to share positivity and light with an organization that is helping others navigate breast cancer.”

“LBBC’s Reach & Raise is a one-of-a-kind event that inspires creativity and has staying power because practicing yoga at an iconic Philadelphia location the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art is a unique experience that only happens once a year,” said LBBC CEO Jean Sachs, MSS, MLSP.  “Jennifer designs the class so that anyone, regardless of skill level or body type can participate and during the hour builds connection and community. Everyone leaves feeling with a special feeling that is hard to explain but worth experiencing.”

Clinical studies continue to demonstrate that yoga for those in treatment for breast cancer improves sleep patterns, decreases fatigue and pain, strengthens the immune system, improves digestion, strengthens bones, helps manage fear and anxiety, enhances body image, and improves overall well-being. LBBC’s Guide to Yoga and Breast Cancer, available free at LBBC.org, describes the different types of yoga and the questions to ask when searching for a class.

Reach & Raise registration is $30 for adults and $10 for children ages 5-18 through May 17.  On-site registration is available the day of the event at $50 per adult.  For more information, visit www.reachandraise.org.

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