Mich. Women's Self-Defense Class Inspired by April Millsap Case

Patty Troia — co-owner of TNT Martial Arts in Romeo, Michigan since 1984 along with her husband, Andrew — is teaching a free women’s self-defense course at Krause Elementary School in Armada from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

According to the Voice, participants will learn a number of basic self-defense skills which can be executed by people of all ages and physical abilities. In addition, Troia will teach situational awareness to help individuals avoid potentially dangerous situations.

“We all do things that put us in vulnerable situations. It doesn’t matter what you know or how long you’ve been doing it. Trusting your instincts, knowing what things to look out for and being more aware of when someone might want to do you harm is why taking a class like this may be of benefit,” she said.

The idea for the class came about as a result of the death of April Millsap, a 14-year-old Armada girl who was found murdered in a wooded area after going out for a walk last month.

There are over 200 people registered for the self-defense class, the Voice reports. Participants are encouraged to wear loose, comfortable clothing and tennis shoes. Donations for the Millsap family will be accepted during the event.