For Immediate Release – March 7, 2011 Contact: Andrew Lin 516-647-6286 [email protected] Three Top Skaters Join Forces to Help Fight Cancer Morristown, NJ – Three big names in figure skating are teaming up for a cancer benefit show at Mennen Sports Arena in Morristown, New Jersey, at 7:00 p.m. on April 16. Emily Hughes, Kimmie Meissner, and Ashley Wagner, attracted to the theme of Skate for Love, Uniting Loved Ones Affected by Cancer, which represents a new perspective on how the disease affects people, will star in the debut of this one night only event. The world of figure skating has always shown support for fundraising for cancer research, which typically is focused on the survivors. Skate for Love represents a variation on this theme by uniting friends and families of cancer survivors whose lives are also touched by this disease. All net proceeds will benefit Susan G. Komen for the Cure®, North Jersey Affiliate. Skate for Love was conceived by competitive skaters Corinna Lin and Madison Olivieri, who felt compelled to give back to their sport. From a young age, Lin was touched as she witnessed firsthand the strength of spirit of the Hughes family. She saw how Olympic Champion Sarah and US silver medalist Emily were inspired to achieve success on the ice by the courage of their mother, Amy, who overcame an aggressive form of breast cancer. To this day, Amy is an active volunteer for the cause as well as an inspiration to other families. Emily will skate at the event to celebrate the triumph of her mother and of other survivors and their loved ones. Featuring skating champions of the past as well as local rising stars of the future, the show will highlight the stories of families and friends who have experienced the disease through the eyes of their loved ones. "Cancer changes your life dramatically, your self-esteem,and how you imagine yourself in this world," said 3-time US Champion and Olympian JoJo Starbuck. Starbuck was touched by the disease when her mother defeated breast cancer and went on to live a full and vibrant life, and she will never forget how it made their family appreciate being healthy. Starbuck will be hosting the event with Olympic bronze medalist “Quad King” Timothy Goebel. World Champion Kimmie Meissner can certainly relate. Her aunt successfully battled breast cancer 5 years ago. Meissner has been working with children affected by cancer through her Cool Kids Campaign, an organization she co-founded in Baltimore that helps to provide a higher quality of life for kids who are struggling with cancer. "I want to take everyone on the journey of life and show them how to face its challenges," said Skate for Love Artistic Director, Chika Maruta, a former Ice Theater of New York principal skater. Maruta is collaborating with an array of resourceful volunteers to put on a professional show in hopes of raising funds for cancer research. According to Maruta, "It will be a magical evening of reflection and joy." Skate for Love features music by national recording artist Lisa Bouchelle, with 2-time US bronze medalist Ashley Wagner skating to Bouchelle's live cover of "Imagine." Rounding out the cast of elite skaters are US Champion Nicole Bobek, US Junior Pairs Champion Felicia Zhang, 2011 US Nationals 5th place finisher Christina Gao and Eastern Sectionals Champion Samantha Cesario. There will be entertainment for the entire family including a professional mime, a contortionist, and other performance artists. Several skating celebrities will appear off ice to show their support, including World Champion Elaine Zayak, and Swiss Champion “Spin Queen” Lucinda Ruh. Professional costume designers Stephanie Handler and Tania Bass are donating their talents to this endeavor as well. Tickets to Skate for Love are $20 for general admission and $50 for front row seating with a cast meet-and- greet session before the show. Go to www.skateforlove.org to purchase tickets and become a fan of Skate for Love on Facebook. Cast is subject to change. .