In memory of a fraternity brother lost to an asthma attack, members of the Theta Chi Fraternity at California State University, Stanislaus will hold a 36-hour Row-a-Thon philanthropic fundraiser on March 19.

The annual event, held in the Reflection Pond on campus, helps to support the efforts of California Breathing, an organization dedication to reducing the troubles of asthma.

“The goal of this organization is reduce the burden of asthma, improve respiratory health of Californians, and reduce asthma-related health disparities through education and environmental interventions where we live, work, and play,” said Luis Magana, active member and Public Relations director of the Theta Chi Fraternity at CSU Stanislaus.

The annual Theta Chi Row-a-Thon began in 2004 when then-Theta Chi President John Tooma, passed away due to an asthma attack.

At the age of 22, Tooma suffered a fatal asthma attack after spending Labor Day skim boarding in Santa Cruz with other members of the Theta Chi Fraternity. Tooma was a finance major at CSU Stanislaus and a graduate of Turlock High School. Tooma would have graduated in the spring, and held an internship at Merill Lynch in Modesto at the time of his passing.

The annual Theta Chi Row-a-Thon continues in memory of Tooma, and donates all profits from the event to organizations that further research on asthma and respiratory health. The event also assists in donating scholarships for local high school students from both Pitman and Turlock High Schools if enough funds are raised.

Theta Chi Fraternity at CSU Stanislaus is currently looking for donations and sponsorships for the annual Row-a-Thon event that will occur on March 19 and 20.

Theta Chi also has professional donation letters that can be distributed, and with every donation a tax deductible receipt will be issued with the tax ID provided.

Donations can either be made at the event, or by contacting Luis Magana at (209) 338-4528.