Inaugural YouFit Lifts Program Kicks off April 30 Benefiting Nicklaus Children's Hospital

YouFit Lifts is an ongoing initiative where YouFit Gyms partners with, and supports, local charities and nonprofit organizations in the communities surrounding their 80 locations across the country. The inaugural event, Benefit for Bradley, will raise funds for Nicklaus Children’s Hospital on Saturday, April 30, and Sunday, May 1.

For Jose Migenis, Florida Regional Director for YouFit Gyms, Nicklaus Children's Hospital plays an important role. His son Bradley, who turned 3 on April 7, has been in the care of a team of specialists at the hospital since birth. Bradley was diagnosed with epilepsy, cortical vision impairment and cerebral palsy, conditions that affect his developmental abilities.

“It’s hard to put into words the immense amount of gratitude that my family and I have for Nicklaus Children’s Hospital and YouFit Gyms,” says Migenis. “During the most critical time, the team at Nicklaus, provided our family with exceptional care and compassion.  As we continue through Bradley’s journey, we feel supported as we navigate the best options to provide Bradley with the best quality of life; and YouFit for their unconditional support and willingness to launch YouFit Lifts with their first event Benefit For Bradley, that will help so many other families in the Nicklaus Children’s Hospital community.”

Patrons who make a $15 donation will be entered to win a year membership as well as receive a 2-day pass to their YouFit Gyms location to participate in the Benefit For Bradley event. There will also be small bites to keep guests fueled pre- and post- workout.  Migenis along with his wife, Vilma, and of course, Bradley, will be making appearances at several Miami YouFit locations throughout the weekend.

YouFit will also launch Burpees for Bradley, a 39-burpee challenge. This number signifies the longest number of days in which Bradley has been seizure-free in the past year.  Burpees for Bradley will take place at all locations as well as on social media @YouFit, allowing anyone, anywhere to participate. Those participating in Burpees for Bradley via social media, can make a donation and are encouraged to tag #burpeesforbradley.

 “We are so grateful for YouFit’s support of the children and families in our community – families like Bradley’s who are committed to seeking the best possible medical care and a brighter future for their children,” says Matthew A. Love, President and CEO of Nicklaus Children’s Health System. “Bradley is one of close to half a million patients who receive care at Nicklaus Children’s each year. This type of community support propels us forward in our vision of creating a healthy future for every child.” 

All proceeds raised from Benefit from Bradley will be donated to Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Foundation.

For more information about Benefit for Bradley, to sign up, or make a donation, visit nicklauschildrens.org/benefitforbradley. You can also follow Bradley’s journey at @vilmers on Instagram.