Model High’s Ellie Getchell organizes CrossFit fundraiser in honor of her mom and raises over $6,000 to benefit Glioblastoma research.

Ellie Getchell (far right) with CrossFit Rome coach Jeff Holloway talk about the special workout on Saturday.

In developing her senior project, Model High’s Ellie Getchell knew she wanted to do something to not only help the community but also to support her mom who suffers from brain cancer. She organized “Lift up LG,” a fundraising event in honor of her mom, Laura Getchell, to support research efforts of the Glioblastoma Foundation.

Ellie with her parents Laura and Glenn Getchell during Saturday’s event.

The event took place Saturday at CrossFit Rome. Participants made donations and 170 T-shirts were sold for the benefit with more than $6,000 raised.

“My mom enjoys working out. So we created a tough workout with my mom’s favorite exercises. We had so many want to participate, we had four groups with 20 in each group. I had to limit the numbers to maintain social distancing,” says Ellie. “I am amazed at how many supported us.”

Laura was diagnosed with a brain tumor in August. She has since had surgery to remove the tumor and received radiation. She is undergoing chemotherapy treatments now.

“My mom is doing well. She is still able to work and still works out at CrossFit Rome. Her physical health is awesome,” says Ellie.

Ellie will now put together a presentation and write a paper on her project. She will present her project in April so that she can earn the Honors Seal for graduation. She plans to attend the University of Georgia this fall.

“Going through this with my mom really makes me want to work in the medical field. I want to do something to help people,” she says.