A Mud Run For Mom

Hanna Gralton has danced at Maxine's Studio since she was 9 or 10, and now at the age of 19, is also an instructor of aerial fabric performance to a new class of youngsters. However, her most meaningful steps may come as part of the benefit 'mud run' planned on Maxine's 'back 40' in honor of her mother Traci, who died in March at the age of 50 from breast cancer.

Runners who are game to get grubby can register beginning at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 6, with the race beginning at 10 a.m. The course is friendly to women of all ages, and in the spirit of the event, is also welcoming for younger kids to participate in.

Gralton said Maxine Learned, owner of the studio, approached her with the idea shortly after the funeral, which was an idea that "intrigued" her. Learned got to know Traci over the years of practice and performances, and felt that she should be remembered while raising funds to defeat the disease that took her life at way too young an age.

An avid horsewoman and trainer from Mukwonago, Traci was often called the 'horse whisperer' according to her daughter. An article that appeared on PawsitiveChoice.com said Traci would remind her students to trust their gut instincts when it came to working with horses.

"If you think something is wrong, there probably is. As a good horse owner and rider it is your responsibility to find out what is wrong and then do your best to resolve the problem," she stated in the article.

Gralton said she faced her battle with cancer in much the same way, ramping up her already healthy habits after finding a lump in her breast two years ago.

"She was very sweet, and she was a health freak. She was very much into pilates and yoga, and overall just a very active person. I woke up one day to find a 10-pound bag of carrots in the kitchen, and my mom told me she heard that they were key in fighting cancer, so she was juicing the whole bag," Gralton said.

While Traci exhibited the same focus on her fight as she recommended for her students in working with their horses, she also maintained a brave face.

"My mom was someone who never let it get to her. We never saw her break down," Gralton added.

Perhaps the apple doesn't fall far from the tree, as Gralton stays focused on her own future and goals. She attends UW-Waukesha to eventually pursue a career in design, she affords tuition by working four jobs in addition to her role as teacher at Maxine's.

Women can register at the event for $25. For more information, visit the event's Facebook page or call Learned at 262-424-5059 .