A member of our martial arts community, Joanna Oler, was injured on September 11, 2025. During a mass “real-life” training exercise, another participant crashed into Joanna, breaking her tibia at the knee. She had surgery a week later requiring a titanium plate and 5 screws to mend the break. She cannot put any weight on that leg for 12 weeks and anticipates up to a year for full recovery with “no guarantees” she will ever regain full range of motion in this leg. The pain has been excruciating … a “do not recommend” injury … Joanna joked!

Joanna is a single mom to two young children. She is accustomed to working very hard both on and off “the mat.” She went from knitting in the lobby while observing her children train to “brown belt” level in less than two years because of her grit and dedication to the craft. Due to this unfortunate accident, she has been unable to work her two to three security jobs causing her to drain all her savings. She is in dire need for ANY help to pay for rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, and household basics for the next many months ahead.

It is uber difficult for Joanna to ask for help. She is quick to give plenty when she hears of a need. So, we pray and hope that many will relate to her situation and generously give too. Please kindly also share this page with your contacts via whatever social media platforms you use … Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, WhatsApp, Twitch, Nextdoor … to reach a wider community with Joanna’s story. She and her kids desperately need help. Her road to recovery and return to work is undoubtedly long and uncertain.

Thank you immensely for your prayers and support.