On March 2, Collins Hall lit up with laughter and dancing, all in support of Elliot Lake resident Tanya Williams who is undergoing treatment in Toronto after a flu shot left her paralyzed from the waist down.
The event, hosted by Kellie Robinson of No Excuses Zumba, had over 150 people shaking and dancing with Zumba moves, something Williams was passionate about and participated in with her daughter, Colbie. Throughout the event, participants were able to make personal donations to Williams and her family. Currently, Williams is at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto where she is learning to walk all over again.
At the beginning of the fundraiser, Robinson got the crowd warmed up and ready to dance, even asking for children to come onto the stage to dance. One of the participants on stage was Williams' daughter Colbie, who, when asked who she was here for, said, "I'm here for my mommy."
Gayle Robinson, mother-in-law to organizer Kellie Robinson, volunteered her time in support of Williams.
"I can't believe the amount of people that are here for this," she said, looking around the hall in awe. "I worked with Tanya before. She's a sweetheart and deserves every bit of help. We're proud of her progress."
Sporting her t-shirt with the words Team Tanya, Shelley Cleveland said she was there to support her best friend.
"She's my best friend and I'm here to support her," she explained. "She loves Zumba. We're here to help."
Also sporting her Team Tanya shirt, Williams' sister, Ingrid Ekomiak said she's very thankful for the Elliot Lake community.
"This is just amazing with the amount of people that are here. It's incredible," she expressed. "Elliot Lake is always amazing and supportive of their community. It's nice to see so many people supporting my sister."
At the end of the night, event organizer Kellie expressed her gratitude and thanks to those who came out to support Williams.
"We cannot have done this without everyone here tonight," she expressed. "Thank you for your support and help."
The event, Zumba for Tanya, raised over $5,000 for Williams and her family.