MIAMI, Fla.—For most college students, working out is an opportunity to relieve stress, avoid the “freshmen 15” and get ready for spring break. For Dylan Malitsky and Brock Gamez of the Alpha Chi Chapter at University of Miami, it is also an opportunity to serve.
Between classes, homework assignments and chapter meetings, Malitsky and Gamez started taking part in the popular fitness program CrossFit. They both quickly found a passion for the “sport of fitness” and enjoyed pushing themselves to the limit with each workout.
After Malitsky placed in the top 10 percent of the open division at the Southeast Regional Championships, the two Pi Kapps began plotting a memorable summer journey to the CrossFit National Games while giving back to others.
While brainstorming, Malitsky and Gamez remembered going to an event hosted by SeeFit, an organization that raises awareness and funds through CrossFit to benefit people with visual impairments. SeeFit was founded by Helen and Adam Mopsick whose son, Colton, was diagnosed with Aniridia—a degenerative visual impairment. The brothers approached Helen and Adam with an idea for a cross-country fundraiser.
The Mopsicks were thrilled with the idea. As Malitsky and Gamez began planning the trip, they mentioned sharing the news with members of fraternity. When the men told the Mopsicks that they belonged to Pi Kappa Phi, they learned that Adam is an initiate of Alpha Epsilon (Florida) and his wife, Helen, one of the chapter’s “Roses.”
Malitsky and Gamez, along with friends Eric, Matt, Noah and Cam, will begin the Road to the Cure on June 28. They will travel from Miami to Los Angeles, stopping at CrossFit gyms in 10 different states, ending their trip at the CrossFit National Games.
“Along the way we’re going to be stopping at different gyms and explain what SeeFit means, talk about different conditions and offer the opportunity to donate and help out,” said Maltisky. “Our goal is to raise $50,000 to go towards funding research to cure Aniridia.”
The men are excited to combine their passion for service with their hobby in a way that will help children like Colton. Dylan and Brock will be sharing updates and pictures of their adventure on Facebook and Twitter as they travel across the country.
To learn more about SeeFit and the Road to the Cure, visit seefit.org.