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"Pose for PEACE" 2018 was the largest one yet with 168 people in attendance Labor Day to raise money for epilepsy awareness. (Courtesy Teri O'Connor)

By Maddy Vitale

Teri O’Connor got her wish on Labor Day.

The owner of NJ Beach Yoga hoped her sixth annual “Pose for PEACE” yoga fundraiser at the JFK Beach in Sea Isle would be the largest ever.

Not only did the event attract more participants than in prior years, but it also raised more funds for O’Connor’s chosen cause – the National Epilepsy Foundation, than in the prior year.

“We raised $1,500 for the Epilepsy Foundation. We had 168 people share a joyful beach yoga flow, where you could feel the unity in our community,” O’Connor remarked.

They raised nearly $500 more for the cause than last year. The goal is to spread awareness about epilepsy, which is a neurological disorder.

Teri O’Connor (left) with niece Brigid McManoman. (Courtesy Teri O’Connor)

For O’Connor, of Sea Isle, the showing of support and community spirit meant a lot, especially because her niece, Brigid McManamon, suffers from epilepsy.

She said she wanted to help her niece and also alert people about the disease, what symptoms to look for, what to do if someone has a seizure, and overall, just learn about the disease.

O’Connor, who has been under contract with Sea Isle City to offer yoga year-round, said that the city has been very supportive of her fundraiser.

Her plan is to continue to host an annual “Pose for PEACE” every Labor Day, and like this year, the hope is that it continues to grow.

For more information visit www.njbeachyoga.com or call or text Teri O’Connor at 609-602-3398 or email her at terioconnor@comcast.net.

“Pose for PEACE” brings people together in the shape of a peace sign for a relaxing yoga class on Labor Day, while raising funds for a cause. (Courtesy Teri O’Connor)