Local fitness instructors Suzanne Hennessy and Robert Gelman are hosting a special Zumbathon on Saturday, Oct. 20 from noon to 3 p.m. at Sonora’s historic Opera Hall, 250 S. Washington St., Sonora.

The event is designed to provide resources to the Cancer Patient Support Fund of Adventist Health, Sonora’s regional medical center, along with its brand-new facility, the Diana J. White Cancer Institute. A Zumbathon is a follow-along dance-fitness party where anyone who wants to participate can make a small donation to get into the event and either watch, shop, or dance away the day. It all starts with a special performance by Onstage Dance Company, also from Sonora.

Hennessy explained that a variety of raffle and auction packages can be won at the event, including adventure travel in the Sierras, “Stay-and-Play” accommodations and gifts at Black Oak Casino Resort, handcrafted jewelry, a pet lovers’ delight, personal care and pampering from Avon and others, plus much more.

Additionally, there will be a select group of vendors on hand offering delightful healthy lifestyle and artisanal products, including the new Columbia Floral and Wares, Nature’s Whole Food Depot, Chloe+Isabel Jewelry, Youngevity and many more.

“We’re honored and excited that some of the best Zumba/dance-fitness instructors anywhere are coming to Sonora to lead participants in this exciting first-time event,” said Gelman. “These are people whose talent is obvious when you see them in action, and their compassion is evident in the way they have stepped up to support needy cancer patients here in our community.”

Instructors from Sacramento, Valley Springs, San Ramon, Arnold, Jackson, Stockton, Angels Camp and more will be on hand.

Admission to the public for the event is just a $15 donation (to dance, shop, or observe) and can be purchased at the door or online at www.SierraZumbathon.com.

A few vendor places are still available and interested parties should contact the organizers at 209-559-1481 for details.