Cancer has a way of marking time. You remember the exact dates, the faces in the room, the way fear and disbelief sit heavy in your chest. For many survivors, it’s not just the treatment that’s hard, it’s the mental and emotional weight that follows. The mix of fear, guilt, and gratitude can feel overwhelming.
Survivor Fitness participant Melanie Waller, who faced her diagnosis while navigating a major life change and the responsibility of caring for her family, knows that journey well.
Diagnosis and the Guilt of “Good” News
Melanie had recently moved back to Nashville after three decades in Colorado to help care for her parents and her developmentally disabled sister, Amy. On July 2, 2024, a routine mammogram led to a diagnosis of breast cancer.
“I remember it so clearly because my sister was away at camp,” Melanie shared. “I was so grateful she wasn’t home when I found out. I was so shocked and just wrote down—’I have cancer.’”
With the help of her best friend, a nurse, Melanie quickly connected with Dr. Lisa Bellin, an oncologist, who provided clarity and compassion in a difficult moment. “I couldn’t imagine going through the weekend without talking to someone about next steps,” Melanie said. “Dr. Bellin was amazing, to say the least.”
Two months later, Melanie underwent a double mastectomy. Less than a month after surgery, she received the news that she wouldn’t need chemotherapy or radiation. Still, the road to recovery was far from easy.
“I was skeptical about joining Survivor Fitness because I felt so bad after surgery and the medications,” she said. “I also felt guilty because I didn’t have ‘bad’ cancer. I thought I shouldn’t ask for help when things could have been worse.”
Furthermore, she was out of shape before surgery and gained weight during recovery. Her independence was shaken, and a deep mistrust of her body set in. “I didn’t like going on walks by myself because I kept thinking I would fall down. It was odd because I am so used to being independent and taking care of myself and other people.”
Finding Hope Through Survivor Fitness
Despite her doubts, Melanie decided to complete the Survivor Fitness application before her reconstructive surgery. “When they called about joining the program, I felt a sliver of hope,” she said. “But I wasn’t sure if I would actually do it.”
Melanie started the program in April 2025 at 360 Fitness, where she was paired with Coach Marissa Erickson. The environment she encountered was immediately welcoming.
“Walking into the gym that first day was overwhelming. The entire staff was amazing and supportive. Not to mention they have a resident dog, Murphy, who greets you at the door.”
Along with her fitness training, Melanie also met with a Survivor Fitness nutritionist who shared recipes that she still uses today. “It was such a simple thing, but it made a huge difference,” she said. “They gave me the tools I needed to take care of my body again.”
A Life Transformed
The progress Melanie has made since joining Survivor Fitness has been remarkable. “Survivor Fitness, Marissa, and the staff at 360 Fitness are a big part of overcoming the challenges,” she shared. “They encouraged me continuously and met me where I was. My mindset was in the dumps when I started, but I have come so far.”
Since beginning the program, Melanie has lost more than 25 pounds, feels stronger, and experiences less pain. “My knees hurt less. My arm strength is amazing. I feel good again. I feel like myself from three years prior,” she said.
Even more meaningful than the physical results is the mental clarity and confidence she’s regained. “I had no idea how much better I would feel just moving my body in a way that was safe and tailored for me,” she explained. “I like working out. I like getting stronger. I want to lift heavy weights and get in really good shape. I’m motivated to keep going!”
Paths Crossing for a Purpose
Melanie Waller’s story highlights how often we are surrounded by a community of people willing to help, even in unexpected places. In September 2025, Melanie celebrated one year cancer-free. A few weeks later, she attended a fundraising event for her sister’s day program, Friends Life Community. There, she experienced an unexpected reminder of how connected life can be.
“Sitting next to me on the shuttle bus was my breast surgeon,” Melanie said with a smile. “It was so out of context that I was confused at first. Then I learned she was there to support her son, who is also developmentally disabled. It reminded me how small the world is and how our paths often cross in ways we never expect.”
Finding Strength in Community
Melanie’s story is a reminder that even when we feel isolated, we’re surrounded by people ready to help—sometimes in the most unexpected ways.
Through Survivor Fitness, Melanie found a team that believed in her when she wasn’t sure she could believe in herself. “They met me where I was and helped me get back to who I am,” she said.
Today, Melanie continues to train regularly, celebrate her progress, and live with renewed confidence and purpose. If you’re ready to take the next step in your cancer recovery journey, learn more about our programs or apply today.
