A benefit seminar to help raise money for John Flite’s battle with leukemiea brings together east coast BJJ community. Photo: John Flite

A student and long-time friend of black belt Jared Weiner recently revealed that he was diagnosed with leukemia, cancer of the blood cells. John Filte, along with his son, is a practitioner of Jiu-Jitsu and part of the BJJ community. Because the gentle art is more than just a workout or hobby, it doesn’t take long before the bonds on the mat extend to the lives of its members. Therefore, the community is joining forces to help John with a benefit seminar.

On Nov. 9 at 11 a.m. in Philadelphia, PA a seminar will be held for John to raise money for his treatments as he works to submit the disease.

Members of the community on the east coast have already confirmed their presence to teach and support the cause: Jared Weiner, Wilson Ries, Rob Schier, Vicente Junior, Daniel Tavares, and Rafael “Formiga” Barbosa who just won the Masters and Seniors Worlds. More athletes will be announced later.

The suggested donation for the event is $50 to help out John and his family. Every affiliation, team, person is welcome. Members of the community from New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Massachusetts have already confirmed their presence for this benefit seminar.

The address for the location is: BJJ United 428 Old York Rd Jenkintown, PA 19046

For more information contact bjjunitedmma@gmail.com

By Dão Tavares

Together with exercise-equipment manufacturer VersaClimber, black belt Caio Terra will be holding a seminar at Total MMA Studio academy in Tustin, California, to raise funds for a good cause.

The event will be held next Monday, September 10, and all the proceeds will be donated to the Wounded Warrior foundation. The minimum donation to participate is $25.

For further information, drop by www.totalmmastudios.com/