The second annual “Yoga for Chi” class will be held Jan. 22 to benefit Chi Cheng, bassist for Deftones, who has been in a coma since November 2008.

“It’s an hour-long free yoga class for all ages, and it’s open to all skill levels,” said Julie McKechnie, who will be hosting the class from 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. Jan. 22 at American River Crossfit, 1512 Howe Ave.

Students are encouraged to make donations, which will help Cheng’s family raise the money needed to transport him to New Jersey to see a specialist.

Cheng, who has lived in both Sacramento and Stockton, was in a car accident on Nov. 3, 2008, and though his family says he is improving, he has yet to regain consciousness, according to oneloveforchi.com, a website set up to rally support for the musician.

“His family gives updates and blogs on the website,” McKechnie said. “The family came out and asked for support.”

McKechnie doesn’t know Cheng personally, but said she has been a fan of Deftones, and she wanted to do her part to help.

“Last year, we raised just under $300,” she said. “We’re hoping for $1,000 this year.”

Gina Blackmore of Austin, Texas, founded oneloveforchi.com in March of 2009.

Blackmore said she founded the website because she wanted to help Cheng and his family in any way possible, and described Cheng as “a great guy who was always very kind to my husband and I.”

At last year’s event, Cheng’s ex-wife and son came, and McKechnie said she is expecting supporters from all over Northern California at this year’s event.

Jan. 22 is the date for the global “Wake Up Fest,” when supporters around the world will hold events for Cheng.

On the website for Wake Up Fest, lists events are listed all across the United States as well as in other countries, including the Czech Republic, The Philippines and Romania.

For people who want to donate but are unable to attend the yoga course, oneloveforchi.com has a PayPal donation button.

“It’s one small thing a fan can do,” McKechnie said.

Photos of last year's event by Jonathan Mendick.

Brandon Darnell is a staff reporter for The Sacramento Press.