Sherri Sarrouf is healthy.
Her family is healthy, too.
And yet, the North Andover mother is mindful that not everyone is so lucky.
After a high-risk pregnancy that ended well about 11 years ago, Sarrouf started a fundraiser to help the world-renowned St. Jude Hospital in Memphis, Tenn., where sick children are cared for regardless of their family's ability to pay.
St. Jude's treats children with cancer and other catastrophic diseases. The hospital and research center treat some of the world's sickest children with some of the most cutting-edge medicine. It's this combination that appealed to Sarrouf.
What started out as a small event with a few performers has turned into a large gala celebration, this year with 100 performers known as the St. Jude performance team.
"We are using our healthy bodies to help sick kids," said Sarrouf, a fitness trainer.
To meet space demands, Sarrouf's "Fitness for a Cure" fund-raiser will be held at the Lowell Memorial Auditorium this year, on Saturday, March 27, featuring two shows.
A family show at 1 p.m. includes face painting, a raffle and fitness performance with an elephant theme in the spirit of that at the St. Jude Target House in Memphis.
"Elephants never leave anyone behind, and we are going to use that theme to let the kids know we are not going to leave anyone behind," said Sarrouf, adding that the show will be televised via the Web for patients at the Tennessee hospital. "We always think of the kids at St. Jude's."
The gala event in the evening includes a live and silent auction, dinner and another fitness show.
Sarrouf hopes the event not only raises funds for the worthy hospital, but also serves as a tool to educate the public about this wonderful resource.
"If your child is ever sick or someone in your family is sick, there is hope," she said.
IF YOU GO
What: Fitness for a Cure fundraisers
When: Saturday, March 27, at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Where: Lowell Memorial Auditorium, 50 E. Merrimack St., Lowell
How: Tickets for the 1 p.m. show are $15 for children and $35 for adults. A limited number may be available at the door. Tickets for the 6 p.m. show in advance are $125 or $250 for premium seating, a cocktail hour and meet-and-greet with patient families. To reserve tickets visit www.fitnessforacure.com.
