Make Mud Matter: Run for Charity, Make a Difference, and Reach Your Fitness Goals

After losing her grandpa to cancer last year, Chelsea Jaramillo decided it was time to honor the belief he always had in her by making a positive difference in his memory. Chelsea will be taking on the Tough Mudder to fundraise for cancer charity LIVESTRONG. We spoke to her to find out what her Tough Mudder charity journey is all about.

What made you want to run a Tough Mudder for charity?

I’ve always wanted to do a Tough Mudder but I never had the confidence in myself to do it. Before my grandpa passed away from cancer, he told me to take care of myself for me and for my son. He was diagnosed a year before he passed away and during that time, I saw what the stress and pain did to my grandma. They had an incredible amount of support from our family and the town that they lived in. It was amazing to see so many people come together to help support them. Especially because they didn’t have much income. The treatments that my grandpa had were in Denver and they lived 4 hours outside of town. Many people donated to make sure they were able to have gas money and food when they got to town. It was a beautiful thing.

How did participating in Tough Mudder impact your health?

I started taking care of myself and lost 20lbs. I decided that it’s time to have the confidence to believe in myself just like my grandpa believed in me. I figured if I could raise money for families like mine, even better.

What fundraising methods have worked well?

So far, I’ve asked for support from my friends and family. I posted on social media that if someone donates $20, I will do any chores they have around the house, whether it’s spring cleaning, yard work or car washes. Anything along those lines. I’m excited to see how many people participated in that this week. I’m hoping to get more word out around the office soon too.

What has kept you going during your training?

I want to show people that you can absolutely do anything you put your mind to, and that it’s never too late to take care of yourself and be strong and healthy for the people you love.

What is one tip you’d give to someone who is about to do a Tough Mudder for charity?

Remember each and every day what message you want people to receive from all of your hard work. Remember who and why you’re doing it and don’t be afraid to show people how passionate you are. I think people appreciate that.