Kids Kicking It to Get it Done – Kick- a-Thon

HUNTINGTON STATION, NY – The students of American Kempo Martial Arts in Huntington Station are hosting a Kick-a-Thon to raise money for Friends of Karen, a children’s charity on Friday, June 5^th at 6:30 p.m.

Master Dominick Panetta, owner and teacher of American Kempo Martial Arts has frequently done a yearly fundraiser to help many worthy causes.  But this year’s fundraiser is much more personal for the karate studio as a student of American Kempo Martial Arts has a brain tumor and currently undergoing treatment.   James Stanton, a 7 year old was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor at the age of 3.  James has been a student of American Kempo Martial Arts for a year and a Friends of Karen family member from the beginning of his diagnosis.  Master Dominick Panetta commented “I teach students that studying the martial arts is used to help others and feel good about ourselves.  Being able to help sick children is rewarding, helping one of our own students is priceless.  The American Kempo students and their families have been very supportive and are responding so positively to our Kick-a-Thon, we look forward to a great event.”

The money raised from the event benefits Friends of Karen, a tri-state children’s charity with an office in Port Jefferson, that offers financial, emotional and advocacy support to families of children diagnosed with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.

"There are many challenges that we all face in our lives," according to Nancy Mariano, Regional Director of Friends of Karen, "but perhaps the most difficult is having a child with a life-threatening illness. We want the greater community to know that we are here and about the services we provide for our special children and their families."

For more information about Friends of Karen, call (631) 473-1768 or visit www.friendsofkaren.org. American Kempo Martial Arts is located at 332 East Jericho Turnpike in Huntington Station, NY (631) 351-5367.