With the Susan G. Komen 3-day walk coming up on Nov. 18-20, Bird Rock’s Studio Barre owners and sisters, Jennifer Cosco and Lindsay Holt, wanted to contribute to October’s National Breast Cancer Awareness month through what’s known as the studio’s ‘Strength Defined Month.’ Accordingly, they created events throughout October to do just that. The sister-team said they have always been extremely close and had wanted to own a business together, so when Studio Barre became a franchise, they went for it and haven’t looked back. In fact, this January marks their two-year anniversary. “Lindsay found Studio Barre and watched as it transformed her body. She made me (Jennifer) start going and I noticed the change as well. Not only to our bodies, but how we benefited also in our other activities such as running, yoga and surfing. And when Shannon Higgins (founder of Studio Barre) decided to franchise, we just had to be a part of it and share our passion for Studio Barre with others.”  When asked why they decided to help contribute to the awareness of breast cancer awareness month, they said, “Our family has personally been affected by breast cancer and we’ve seen women close in our lives have to go through that battle. On the positive side, we’ve seen how strong women around us truly are and this is a month to help others we don’t know demonstrating unbelievable courage in a tough time.” 
It was an ideal opportunity to help contribute to the cause, especially since Studio Barre’s founder, Shannon Higgins, is a breast cancer survivor as well. After Higgins’ created the company’s tagline “Strength. Defined,” she never imagined the message would take on new meaning after her own diagnosis of breast cancer just one year after forming Studio Barre. Now cancer free, Higgins has been humbled by the community of Studio Barre franchise owners and clients in six states across the U.S. who have continued to step-up and take action. The Studio Barre brand is best known for its warm staff, stellar fitness results and sassy style, and now it’s also becoming known for its dedication to awareness. The La Jolla community is encouraged to participate together this month to make a big impact. On Saturday, the 22nd at 9:15 a.m. there’s a donation class where attendees can enjoy a one-hour barre class followed by healthy treats. Resources will be given out to all attendees including a resourceful tool on how to properly conduct a breast cancer self-exam. Attendees are also invited to share what “I am strength defined” means to them through what’s being called “breast wishes.” Contributors can write their thoughts down on art-inspired pieces at their neighborhood studio or on social media. Every “breast wish” hopes to be inspirational for those battling cancer, survivors or friends and family impacted by cancer. For social, the campaign will be using the hashtag, #Iamstrengthdefined and welcome participants to tag the brand @studiobarrestrengthdefined. Then on Nov. 6, look for the founder of the Studio Barre franchise along with local owners and ‘barre-tenders’as they’ll be leading the warm-up stretch for the annual Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. To register as part of the Strength Defined team or donate, visit bit.ly/2e9ukrw.  “I was inspired to spread Shannon’s message of health and a happy spirit when I opened Studio Barre in Bird Rock,” said Cosco. “Being part of this special campaign and giving recognition to our founder’s journey means a lot to every one of us.” They also added, “Of course bringing more awareness to the cause and seriousness of early detection (is essential). If we can shed any positivity on the bravery of those who have come through on the other side, it’s a win.”  
The Susan G. Komen 3-Day is a 60-mile walk for women and men who are ready to end breast cancer forever. Participants raise a minimum of $2,300 and walk an average of 20 miles a day for three consecutive days, educating tens of thousands of people about breast health and raising funds to help support breast cancer research and community outreach programs. The walk begins Nov. 18t in Del Mar. For more info and to participate Visit komen.org or call 1-877 GO KOMEN. Connect with us on social at ww5.komen.org/social.