Partner Spotlight: Carrie Loughlin

carrie loughlin, survivor fitness partner

Many fitness professionals are inspired by the mission of Survivor Fitness, and our partners often describe how they were immediately drawn to the organization.

Carrie Loughlin is one such partner—someone who witnessed the program’s impact firsthand before stepping into a training role herself. Today, she is a compassionate and dedicated trainer who has guided numerous participants on their journey to regaining strength and confidence after cancer treatment.

Carrie was first introduced to Survivor Fitness through A|Train Fitness Coaching, where she began working as an intern in 2021 while attending PT school at Belmont University. During her internship, she had the opportunity to observe all aspects of the program while shadowing experienced trainers. After earning her certification, she immediately started earning an advanced qualification as a Cancer Exercise Specialist. To date, Carrie has trained over 30 Survivor Fitness participants through the fitness program.

Tailored Training + Continued Support = Lasting Impact

Working with Survivor Fitness participants has given Carrie the opportunity to train clients with diverse cancer diagnoses, treatments, and physical challenges. This experience has not only expanded her knowledge of tailored training techniques but has also deepened her empathy for the unique journey each survivor faces.

“I’m personally inspired by the transformative impact fitness can have on participants,” Carrie says. “Each individual faces unique challenges, but the ultimate goal is to help them return to or surpass their pre-diagnosis health and fitness level.”

This blend of personalized coaching and ongoing support is what Carrie loves most about her role.

“My favorite part of working with participants is the opportunity to meet diverse individuals and hear their unique life stories and experiences,” she shares.

One of her most memorable experiences involved a participant named Carol, who struggled with balance and mobility after surgery. Before training with Carrie, Carol relied on others or nearby objects to stand up if she fell, a limitation that impacted her independence, ability to work and quality of life.

“After weeks of focusing on strength and balance and with a little creative thinking, Carol was able to get up off of the floor on her own!” Carrie says proudly.

Beyond one-on-one training, Carrie also enjoys leading Survivor Fitness group classes, where both past and present participants can come together in a supportive and uplifting environment.

Fitness for Life: Why Consistency and Adaptability Are Key

As a Cancer Exercise Specialist, Carrie has learned that two essential aspects of the recovery journey are consistency and access to personalized fitness strategies tailored to each survivor’s unique needs.

“One of the most important things a cancer survivor should know is that while new challenges may arise in strength and fitness training, there is always a modification or alternative approach to help achieve any goal they set!” she advises.

She also emphasizes the importance of fostering sustainable lifestyle changes, encouraging participants to focus on long-term health and well-being.

“Life’s challenges will ebb and flow, sometimes making it harder to prioritize strength and fitness training. Even when methods need to change, it’s essential to find ways to incorporate fitness into life’s transitions,” she explains.

Taking the First Step Toward Healing

When asked what advice she’d give to cancer survivors who are hesitant about starting a program like Survivor Fitness, Carrie offers a simple but powerful message:

“Taking that first step back into fitness after cancer treatment can feel intimidating, but take the leap! This program is tailored to each participant, with your trainer meeting you where you are and providing the support and guidance you need to achieve your goals.”

We are grateful for Carrie’s dedication, expertise, and genuine care for Survivor Fitness participants. If you are a cancer survivor looking to regain strength, stamina, or an overall sense of well-being after treatment, we invite you to learn more about our programs or apply today.

We’re always looking for an additional physical fitness trainer who wants to partner with us and help survivors on their recovery journey. Reach out to our team to learn how you can get started. 

Participant Spotlight: John Adamick

John Adamick survivor fitness participant

Cancer treatments can be life-saving, but they also leave survivors facing a harsh new reality—one where their bodies and minds feel drastically different from before. The physical and mental toll can be overwhelming, leaving many searching for a way to rebuild strength, confidence, and a sense of normalcy. For Survivor Fitness participants like John Adamick, the journey to recovery is just as critical as the treatment itself.

A Hard-Fought Battle Against Cancer

On December 19, 2022, John received a devastating diagnosis: a rare form of non-Hodgkin T-cell lymphoma. Determined to fight, he underwent three rounds of chemotherapy, but each attempt failed to stop the disease. With limited options remaining, his oncologist at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center began exploring additional measures and clinical trials. Then, against the odds, John received the best news possible:

“Finally, and miraculously, after a fourth and final chemo treatment at Vanderbilt, my illness was successfully treated,” John explained. 

Because the treatment worked, John became a candidate for a donor stem cell transplant, a procedure that would give him the best chance at long-term survival. On February 15, 2024, he underwent a transplant at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. The months that followed were grueling—110 days of post-transplant maintenance and daily infusions, all while living in a temporary apartment away from home. 

The treatment had worked, but John was left feeling like a shell of himself. Malnutrition and muscle depletion had taken a severe toll. He struggled with food aversions, difficulty swallowing, and painful sores in his mouth from thrush, making eating an exhausting challenge. 

“Before treatment, I was a big man of 6’4″ and weighed 280 pounds. During the time frame from my first cancer diagnosis, I lost over 100 lbs from chemo sickness,” John shared. “Many would say I was a walking skeleton.”

Regaining his strength felt like an uphill battle. That’s when John found Survivor Fitness.

Mobility, Endurance, Confidence

After his 110-day stay, John’s oncology team highly recommended he reach out to Survivor Fitness for post-rehabilitation healing and strength.

Our team was able to help John get started training at Performance Training Inc. in his hometown of Knoxville, TN. He was paired with Ben Doyle, a dedicated trainer who constructed a regimen of exercises for healthy muscle mass, mobility, strength, and (last but not least) increased confidence. Step by step, John and Ben worked to rebuild his strength, enhance his endurance, and overcome the physical challenges from his treatment.

“Without Survivor Fitness & PTI, I seriously doubt I would be on track to living a normal life,” John celebrated. “Before Survivor Fitness, I had limited mobility. From a walker to relying on a cane and now walking solely on two feet. “

Looking back on his experience, John described working with Survivor Fitness as “the best thing that ever happened to me.” 

“FOR THE HEALTH OF IT!”

For John, this journey was about more than just physical recovery—it was about mindset. Having been an athlete in his younger years, he understood that accomplishing any goal requires dedication, perseverance, and mental resilience.

One motto captured his approach to Survivor Fitness: “FOR THE HEALTH OF IT!” This phrase represents his commitment to regaining his strength and his willingness to fight for a full, healthy life.

After completing the 12-week program, John decided to continue working out with Ben on his own at PTI Knoxville. Each session brought new progress, more confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose.

When asked what advice he would give to someone else facing a similar journey, John responded simply but powerfully: “There is a generous and caring group of people who care. Just look at me—I am a testament to that.”

We’re incredibly proud of John’s resilience and determination. His story truly showcases the power of strength, support, and community. 

If you or someone you know is a cancer survivor looking to regain strength and confidence after treatment, Survivor Fitness is here to help. Learn more about our programs or apply today.

Healing with Kindness: How Positive Self-Talk Supports Cancer Recovery

Anyone who has faced a cancer diagnosis understands the crucial role of hope and positive thinking during treatment. It’s advice that people hear frequently: holding onto hope and staying positive can significantly impact the journey. 

But what happens when treatment ends? 

The need for positive self-talk doesn’t stop once active treatment is over—it becomes even more important. A study by the National Institute of Health indicates that 35% of cancer survivors experience significant psychological distress after treatment, including anxiety, depression, and fear of recurrence. Learning to be kind to yourself and to embrace positive self-talk is a vital part of healing and long-term well-being.

At Survivor Fitness, this approach of healing with kindness is at the heart of everything we do. It’s woven into the way our fitness trainers and nutrition partners support participants, and it’s a foundational aspect of our mental health counseling services.

Healing from the Inside Out: How Self-Talk Shapes Recovery

Positive self-talk and consistent self-care are essential for cancer survivors for several reasons. Here are a few key benefits:

Builds Emotional Resilience

Recovery after cancer isn’t just about physical healing—it’s about rebuilding confidence, strength, and emotional well-being. Positive self-talk helps survivors reframe their thoughts, shifting from fear or self-doubt to a mindset of resilience and possibility. When you reframe challenges with kindness—turning “I can’t do this” into “I’m doing the best I can”—you strengthen your ability to bounce back from setbacks. This mindset shift helps survivors approach recovery with patience and determination, knowing that healing is a process, not a race.

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Survivors often experience anxiety about their health and the future. Research shows that engaging in self-compassion and positive self-talk can lower cortisol levels, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. Instead of dwelling on uncertainties, try reminding yourself, “I am prioritizing my health and well-being every day.” This shift in mindset can help create a greater sense of peace and focus on what is within your control

Fostering Connection and Finding the Support You Need

Cancer recovery isn’t meant to be faced alone, and positive self-talk can remind you that you are worthy of care, community, and encouragement every step of the way.

The way you talk to yourself can shape the way you engage with the world around you. A kind and encouraging inner dialogue makes it easier to reach out for support when you need it—whether that’s asking a loved one for help or building your support system for life after cancer. 

Strengthens the Mind-Body Connection to Improve Overall Health

A study from Johns Hopkins found that a positive mindset can contribute to lower inflammation, better immune function, and improved overall health. This mind-body connection is a powerful force in the healing process. Many of our Survivor Fitness participants share how believing in themselves was a critical part of their physical recovery journey. 

Words to Lift You Up: Mantras for Strength and Healing

If you’re looking for ways to incorporate positive self-talk into your daily life, here are a few simple yet powerful affirmations to try:

“I Can. I Will.”

This was our Survivor Fitness motto in 2024, and every participant fills it in on our board as they begin their training journey. It’s a simple but powerful reminder that you are capable and you have the strength to move forward.

“I Am More Than My Diagnosis.”

Cancer may be part of your story, but it does not define you. This affirmation helps you reclaim your identity beyond your medical history and focus on the full, vibrant life ahead of you.

“I Deserve to Heal at My Own Pace.”

There’s no timeline for recovery, and healing looks different for everyone. Giving yourself permission to heal in your own way fosters patience and can help you find the motivation to exercise after treatment.

“Every Day, I Am Getting Stronger.”

Progress may be gradual, but each step forward—whether in fitness, nutrition, or emotional well-being—matters. Reminding yourself of your growth helps reinforce your commitment to recovery.

Healing with Kindness Starts Here

Navigating life after cancer treatment is a journey, and being kind to yourself along the way is one of the most powerful things you can do. 

At Survivor Fitness, we believe that healing with kindness is key to rebuilding life after cancer. If you or someone you know is looking for guidance through personal fitness training, nutritional coaching, or mental health counseling, we’re here to help. Explore our programs or apply today to connect with a team member who can help you create a path that works for you.