Tammy Landeen, a 10 year US Army veteran received the grand prize of $20,000 from Anytime Fitness after writing a blog two months ago sharing her story of fitness. Landeen was chosen from more than 3,000 entries, said Mark Daly, national media director from Anytime Fitness. Daly said her remarkable courage and recovery from a devastating injury separated her from the others, as Landeen is paralyzed. She is part of Paralyzed Veterans Team.
“We were impressed by the fact that, despite numerous set-backs, Tammy never gave up on her commitment to living the fullest life possible,” said Dave Mortensen, president and co-founder of Anytime Fitness. “Through hard work and determination, in less than a year, Tammy transformed herself into an athlete and a top performer on the Paralyzed Veterans Racing Team,” he said.
Landeen said she found out about being in the top twelve two weeks ago but was very surprised Wednesday when she was given two checks for $10,000.
“I’m going to buy a new air conditioner for our home,” said Landeen. She said their air conditioner unit had quit last week. “This couldn’t have come at a better time,” she said.
Landeen said she was paying the other $10,000 forward by giving it to Paralyzed Veterans Racing Team.
“I was encouraged by the team to be fit. A lot of team members wouldn’t be able to compete if it weren’t for the support of the team,” she said.
This article originally appeared on Santa Rosa Press Gazette: Milton woman wins $20,000 grand prize for essay