Spinning is one of those exercise disciplines that is as tough as it is exhilarating. It takes strength and perseverance to get through a class, and people who are devoted to the sport can’t get enough.
So it’s easy to see why Wilton’s Jennifer Iannuzzi has had such persistent success every year combining something she loves–spinning–with raising money for a foundation she started to further scientific research into a rare genetic syndrome that affects someone she loves very much.
Back by popular demand, Iannuzzi is hosting the 3rd Annual Strength for Sydney Spin-A-Thon, on Sunday, Nov. 9, from 8 a.m.-noon. Once again, Michelle Maturo, owner of the Elevation Spinning and Personal Training Studio in Georgetown, has graciously offered to host the event. Iannuzzi promises it will be a fun and exiting morning of four hours of spinning, all to benefit the Smith Magenis Research Foundation.
Iannuzzi founded the SMS Research Foundation with Missy Longman. The two met in 2007 shortly after each of their young daughters were diagnosed with the rare Smith-Magenis Syndrome. Their relationship grew while spending countless hours navigating their way through the unknown world of SMS. Individually they ventured out into their communities, speaking to physicians, therapists, behaviorists and school personnel who knew little to nothing about Smith-Magenis Syndrome. And while some key research discoveries had been made with regards to the SMS phenotype, there were still too many questions left unanswered, primarily because SMS research is vastly underfunded.
“This is the 5th year of fundraising for the Smith Magenis Research Foundation and in four short years we have raised over $400,000,” Iannuzzi says. “Although we have done other events over the years the spin-a-thin remains my favorite. Nothing gives me more pleasure then to combine my love of spinning and my passion for fundraising.”
Iannuzzi’s persistence on the spinning bicycle–she loved it so much she became an instructor herself–mirrors her strength in the face of the challenge her daughter faces with SMS. She recently remarked that her daughter Sydney has taught her so much about overcoming obstacles. She hopes that by encouraging people to participate in the spin-a-thon fundraiser, the foundation’s efforts will be strengthened as well in order to help all the families facing the diagnosis.
As the event is now in its third year, Iannuzzi says she is grateful for the support the foundation has received thus far.
“The Elevation Studio has been a wonderful venue for this event as it is such a warm, nurturing and supportive environment. The staff and clients have been so supportive and continue to come out year after year to support the efforts of the Smith Magenis Research Foundation. Everytime someone registers for a bike it shows their commitment to helping build the foundation.”
Participants can sign up for 1-, 2-, or 3-hour rides; the fourth and last hour is reserved for kids 12-years-old and older. The donation to participate is $30 per hour. Riders who want to participate can register for a bike at www.strengthforsydney.kintera.org. Healthy refreshments will be provided and Iannuzzi says there are chances to win prizes during the event. Anyone unable to ride can consider making a direct donation on the website as well; all donations are fully tax deductible.
Iannuzzi recently recorded a video to explain the background, mission and goals of the Foundation.
