Last week I met a rather remarkable young man named Rumen Hulmequist. I first heard of Rumen last spring through a connection with SMSU where he is an exercise science major. At that time I learned that he planned to complete a fitness challenge and was looking for a venue which could meet his needs for space, accessibility and a swimming pool.

After several emails we finally met in person and I learned so much more. Rumen and his sister were adopted from an orphanage in Bulgaria when he was 4 years old. As a young adult he is now passionate about giving back to causes dear to his heart. Last year we swung battle ropes for 10 hours and 12 minutes straight with a different cause supported each hour. He likes to raise the bar each summer so for the past year he has been training for a 24 Hour / 10,000 Rep Full Body Endurance Marathon. Starting at 10 a.m. on Friday, Sept. 7 at the Y he will begin a quest to swim 10 miles and complete a combination of 10,000 jumping jacks, leg raises and push-ups in 24 hours.

This is an incredible feat and will constitute a world record but the aspect that really impresses me is that he is doing this to raise awareness and dollars for cross-cultural adoption. His adoption was facilitated by Lutheran Social Services so his goal is to raise $10,000 with every penny going to Lutheran Social Services and the Children’s Home Society to support adoption from the same orphanage from which he was adopted 19 years ago. Pledges can be made now or after the event by calling Lutheran Social Services at 651-529-8899 or online at www.lssmn.org/give. Under “Donate Now” select the 10,000 / 24 Hour option.

The Y is excited to be the venue for this world record quest. Social Responsibility along with Youth Development and Healthy Living are our area of focus and supporting adoption is a cause which aligns our Christian mission. A small committee has been formed to help with the support which is needed for this event and you can get involved by contacting me directly. We are hoping enlist the help of local churches, have event visits by local students who can both encourage and join Rumen, and have support from local and regional media outlets. Would love to have your support as this truly unique event gears up for Sept. 7. To meet Rumen, view training videos and hear about his mission you can find him on Facebook at Rumen Hulmequist — Motivation.