Board Member Spotlight: Liz Bagwell

Liz Bagwell, survivor fitness board member

At Survivor Fitness, our mission has always been to help cancer survivors reclaim their health and thrive after treatment. In recent years, our reach has expanded, our impact has deepened, and our community has grown. Much of our growth is thanks to the passion of our participants and advocates and the expertise of partners who believe cancer survivors deserve to find hope and healing after treatment.

A research scientist and host of the Rewire Your Brain: The Peace & Positivity Podcast, Liz brings a rare blend of clinical insight, strategic leadership, and heartfelt compassion to everything she does. Before her current endeavors, Liz spent over a decade as a healthcare executive, dedicating her career to supporting oncology patients. As she describes it, helping patients and survivors is “woven into every strand of her being.”

Her introduction to Survivor Fitness came through a cherished connection with Laura Crawford, a former program participant and board member. Inspired by Laura’s story and the organization’s mission, Liz joined the board in 2022 and immediately took on a leadership role. Since then, Liz has used her expertise to help shape our vision and expand our services.

Why the Survivorship Journey Matters

As someone who spent years working alongside oncology patients, Liz was no stranger to the milestones and challenges of treatment. But it was a conversation with a former colleague—a two-time breast cancer survivor—that changed her perspective on what survivorship truly means. This colleague shared a poignant truth: “I was never as scared during treatment as I was when I entered survivorship. You have so many appointments and scans, so many people are always checking on you. When you hit survivorship, you feel like you are all alone and there are limited resources to support you.”

That moment left a lasting impression on Liz.

“I remember crying when she shared that and feeling conviction to help in whatever way I could to improve a patient’s journey during survivorship.”

Creating a Space for Healing and Mental Health 

Liz’s dedication to supporting individuals facing life’s challenges extends beyond her work with Survivor Fitness. Her passion for empowering women feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or burdened by daily pressures led her to launch her own initiative, Rhythm Restoration Collective. Through this venture, she helps clients establish daily rhythms grounded in scientifically backed protocols and practices. Her holistic approach and expertise proved to be a tremendous asset for Survivor Fitness as we launched our mental health programs in 2024.

“It is my firm belief that every single cancer patient should have access to mental health services free of charge. The ups and downs of a cancer diagnosis, nervous system dysregulation, trauma, anxiety, fear, and depression can be nearly as debilitating as navigating a cancer diagnosis and survivorship,” Liz shared.

As a board member, Liz played a crucial role in guiding Survivor Fitness through the multifaceted process of rolling out our mental health program. Her insights and leadership were instrumental in navigating the complexities and alleviating barriers to ensure survivors have access to the vital tools and support they deserve to thrive.

Spreading Hope and Healing

With the mental health program now in place, Liz is focused on what comes next: reaching even more survivors and expanding the ripple effect of healing.

“The impact Survivor Fitness has sends ripples of hope and healing for generations,” she said. “The more survivors we can reach, the more healing and hope we can bring to survivors and their families.”

After years of service, Liz remains inspired by the strength and perseverance of the Survivor Fitness community. If she could offer a message directly to those navigating life after cancer, it would be this:

“I am so proud of each and every single one of you. The courage and strength it takes to go through treatment and keep moving forward to thrive is more inspirational than words could ever describe.”

A Ripple Effect of Healing

Survivor Fitness exists because of people like Liz—people who show up, lead with heart, and believe in the life-changing impact of community and care. Her dedication has helped shape programs that meet survivors where they are and provide the tools and support they need to thrive. We are grateful every day for Liz’s leadership, her compassion, and her unwavering belief in the power of healing. If you or someone you know is navigating life after cancer treatment, learn more about our programs or apply today to join a community that believes in creating a ripple effect of healing for survivors.

Science-Backed Strategies for Living a Longer, Healthier Life After Cancer

cancer survivor working out at gym

Cancer survivors often receive a clear, comprehensive treatment plan to battle the disease. But when it comes to navigating life after cancer, the path forward isn’t always so well-defined. There’s no shortage of advice on how to rebuild your health, and new research is constantly emerging about what works best. The key is finding the right information—and the right approach—that fits your unique journey.

At Survivor Fitness, we know that life after cancer can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re committed to combining the encouragement and camaraderie of cancer recovery with science-backed strategies that help our participants reclaim their health. From board members deeply rooted in the medical community to trainers who are certified cancer exercise specialists, we’re dedicated to using data and information to empower survivors in creating their individual paths to recovery.

Science-Backed Strategies for Life After Cancer Treatment

Here are five key strategies supported by research that have shaped our programs and can guide your journey to a healthier, longer life:

  1. Establish a New Routine of Regular Physical Activity

Study: Regular physical activity after cancer treatment has been shown to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and improve overall survival by up to 50% in some cancer types (Source: American Cancer Society). 

Getting started with an exercise routine after cancer treatment—even for those who were active before diagnosis—can feel daunting, but it’s incredibly valuable for long-term health. The most powerful thing you can do is to make the decision to begin right where you are.

We encourage participants to start slowly and find activities that bring them joy while also helping them regain strength and endurance through one-on-one training sessions.

  1. Make Physical Activity a Lifelong Habit 

Study: Initiating physical activity after a cancer diagnosis was linked to an 11-13% lower risk for cardiovascular diseases (Source: JACC CardioOncology).  

Many cancer treatments can increase the risk of cardiovascular issues. Engaging in the lifelong habit of maintaining physical activity mitigates these risks. 

For many participants, Survivor Fitness serves as a launching point for a sustained fitness journey. Some of our graduates join alumni group classes, while others continue working with trainers beyond the program. Establishing these healthy habits is about creating a foundation for long-term health.

  1. Find the Balance Between Gentle Beginnings and Gradual Progression

Study: Engaging in moderate-intensity training 2-3 times per week can significantly reduce cancer-related fatigue both during and after treatment. (Source: National Library of Medicine) 

Fatigue and muscle loss are two of the most common side effects of cancer treatment. Many survivors start with limited physical capacity after treatment, sometimes struggling with basic tasks like climbing stairs. That’s why our trainers focus on meeting participants where they are and gradually progress, pushing them to achieve more than they initially thought possible. This personalized approach to fitness is a cornerstone of our program.

  1. Adopt a Nutrient-Rich Eating Plan That Works for You

Study: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains has been associated with a 20-30% reduction in the risk of cancer recurrence (Source: World Cancer Research Fund).

Healthy eating doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing approach. Our partnered dietitians emphasize balance, not perfection. Instead of drastic changes, they help participants find realistic, sustainable ways to incorporate nutrient-rich foods into their daily lives. Whether it’s by practicing mindful eating or finding healthy alternatives to favorite snacks, the goal is to create a nutrition plan that supports long-term health while still being enjoyable.

  1. Prioritize Mental Health and Emotional Well-being

Study: Mindfulness-based interventions have been shown to reduce stress and improve quality of life in cancer survivors by up to 25% (Source: Journal of the National Cancer Institute).

Cancer doesn’t just affect the body—it also takes an emotional toll. Many survivors experience anxiety, depression, or feelings of uncertainty about the future. 

This is a primary reason why we integrated mental health programs in 2024. Therapy, mindfulness, and other strategies for coping with cancer-related anxiety can help survivors navigate this new chapter with resilience and confidence. 

Your Journey to a Healthier Future Starts Here

At Survivor Fitness, we’re dedicated to helping you take the first steps towards a healthier, longer life after cancer. We believe in the power of combining scientific knowledge with personalized support to empower you on your journey. Explore our programs or apply today to start your journey toward a healthier, stronger future.