Participant Spotlight: Tony Dunning

Tony Dunning, survivor fitness participant

One of the most surprising—and powerful—aspects of a cancer journey is how it forges meaningful and unexpected connections. Whether through chance meetings, divine timing, or a simple invitation, these relationships can become lifelines. 

Survivor Fitness participant Tony Dunning’s path has been shaped and strengthened by these kinds of moments. Each connection he’s made has played a key role in his healing and created a ripple effect that’s still making an impact today. Tony’s story reminds us that when survivors are supported well, they pay it forward in extraordinary ways.

A Battle on Two Fronts

Tony’s cancer journey began in 2015 with a diagnosis of prostate cancer. He underwent a successful prostatectomy at the Mayo Clinic in early 2016 and spent the next several years cancer-free. But in early 2024, he received a tough update: his PSA levels were rising again, indicating a possible recurrence. A new round of imaging and tests revealed a recurrence of prostate cancer and a new diagnosis of bladder cancer. 

“2024 was kind of a crummy year,” Tony shared. “I spent the balance of the year really focused on treating two totally different types of cancer, with two different paths of treatment. I did my prostate cancer treatment at Mayo in Rochester and my bladder cancer treatment at Vanderbilt. It was a lot.”

Despite the heavy toll—physically, mentally, and emotionally—Tony never lost sight of his commitment to staying active and finding ways to keep moving forward.

A Chance Meeting that Changed Everything

While staying active through workouts at a local CrossFit gym, Tony was introduced to Tom Milam—the founder of the Nashville Wine Auction, an event he and his wife, Diane, had supported for years. The Wine Auction, which has raised over $40 million for cancer-related organizations since its founding, holds a special place in their hearts. During the 2024 event, Tom took the stage and publicly recognized Tony and Diane from the crowd, sharing their story with everyone in the room.

“After Tom shared our story, this woman I didn’t know came up and introduced herself as Meg Grunke,” Tony recalled. “She said she was involved with an organization called Survivor Fitness and wanted to talk to me.”

Tony didn’t know what that meant at the time, but within days, Meg followed up.

“She explained the programs, and the rest is history.”

Several weeks later, Tony applied and was connected with trainer Zlatko Hundur—someone he affectionately refers to as “Z.” From their very first meeting, Tony knew he’d found someone who truly understood how to walk with survivors through their recovery.

“Z took us under his wing,” Tony said. “We were very disciplined—very committed. We went every single day, including over Thanksgiving and Christmas. We were all in.”

One of the most meaningful aspects of his training experience was that Diane could attend sessions with him. “We did it together. That made it even more powerful.”

Though progress was slow at times, the impact was undeniable. “It’s a slog. You don’t see results overnight; it’s a slow burn. But week one versus week ten? Then you start to see it. And the accountability, the reason to show up? It gave me a reason to believe again.”

A Wine Tasting with a Purpose

Not long after completing his initial training with Survivor Fitness, Tony had the chance to give back in an unexpected and deeply meaningful way. At the Survivor Fitness Soirée, he and Diane won an auction item: a private wine-tasting experience for 50 people. They decided to turn this opportunity into something much bigger. They hosted a large group of friends for a wine tasting, complete with food, education, and a video that introduced guests to the Survivor Fitness mission.

“Andrew Tow, who led the tasting, donates all profits to the nonprofit of your choice,” Tony explained. “So of course we chose Survivor Fitness. As a bonus, the other person who won the same auction item did the same. Together, both events raised about $5,000.”

But the impact didn’t stop there. “Because of that event, Andrew was so moved he decided to make a $10,000 donation from his foundation. It just turned into this amazing flywheel.”

What started as a fun evening turned into something powerful: awareness, connection, and lasting support for future participants.

Paying It Forward

Tony knows just how much of a gift Survivor Fitness has been, and he’s committed to making sure others experience it too.

“Coincidentally, a good friend of mine was diagnosed with prostate cancer not long after I was,” Tony shared. “I told him, you have to go to Survivor Fitness. And now he’s in the program and benefiting from it just like I did.”

For Tony, the work Survivor Fitness is doing is more than a support program—it’s a blessing.

“It’s just such a gift from God that this thing even exists. To have the vision, the foresight to bring this to life—and then to see it sustaining, growing… it’s just incredible.”

And the impact doesn’t stop with participants. It grows as they regain their strength and confidence, then pass it on to others.

“We’ve benefited so much as a family,” Tony said. “And it’s exciting to now be part of giving back—to help make sure others get the same opportunity.”

Conclusion: The Ripple Effect of Connection

From a chance conversation with a stranger to a structured training program with a purpose, Tony Dunning’s Survivor Fitness journey is a testament to the power of meaningful connection. Each step—from personal healing to community fundraising—has created a ripple effect that continues to spread.

The Survivor Fitness community exists to help you find your support network after treatment. If you are a cancer survivor looking to reclaim your strength after treatment, we invite you to learn more about our Survivor Fitness programs or submit an application today.

Partner Spotlight: Margie Tuttle

survivor fitness participants holding an I can and I will sign

As Survivor Fitness has grown, so has our incredible network of dedicated specialists who empower cancer survivors to reclaim their health and thrive. We’re privileged to partner with individuals whose diverse backgrounds and profound expertise bring a unique depth to our programs. Margie Tuttle, a Chattanooga-based certified personal trainer, barre instructor, and dance teacher, is a shining example of such a partner, bringing a dynamic and empathetic approach to recovery.

Originally from Maryland, Margie moved to Chattanooga about four years ago and reestablished herself in a new city. Today, she teaches a wide range of classes—from barre to partner dance—and specializes in prenatal and postnatal fitness. 

Creating Connection Through Movement and Fitness 

Thanks to a thoughtful recommendation from her boss, Margie found Survivor Fitness shortly after moving to Tennessee.

“Luckily, my boss thought this program would be a great fit for me and suggested I should join as a training partner,” Margie said. “It could not be a better match for me!”

Since then, Margie has worked with more than 30 Survivor Fitness participants in Chattanooga, combining her expertise in fitness with her passion for helping people feel strong again.

Margie works with each participant individually, tailoring sessions to meet them where they are in their recovery. She finds meaning in helping her clients restore confidence, hope, and momentum.

“Working with the Survivor Fitness program opened my eyes to what someone can go through and just how hard it is to get their life back to normal,” Margie shared. “I feel so blessed and grateful to be able to help many participants with their health and fitness.”

Her curiosity and desire to learn more even led her to complete her cancer exercise specialist certification, adding to her toolbox of support for cancer survivors. But she says some of her most valuable learning has come from simply listening to the stories of the people she trains.

“My favorite part is connecting with each participant, getting to know them, and watching their progress as time goes by. When they notice they’re stronger on their own, that’s even better.”

Advice for Cancer Survivors: Small Wins, Big Picture

Margie is quick to remind survivors that strength training after cancer treatment isn’t just about lifting weights. It’s about lifting yourself up again, little by little.

“There are a few important things a cancer survivor should know when it comes to strength and fitness. One: everyone has different body types and goals, so always be kind to yourself. Two: when it comes to goals for your fitness and health, start with small ones that are attainable and achievable. Three: always celebrate the little wins throughout your journey. That’s what keeps you going.”

She also encourages survivors to pay attention to both their physical and mental well-being.

“Some helpful wellness practices for survivors could be yoga, meditation, breathwork, clean eating, and adding more whole foods to your diet,” she said. “Keep moving and building strength. Set up self-care appointments like acupuncture or massages. And most of all, connect with others who are going through the same things to build community.”

Your Forever Cheerleader

For anyone considering joining the Survivor Fitness program, Margie has a powerful message of encouragement. 

“After meeting me, you will have a forever cheerleader in life that will always lift you up, keep challenging and pushing you, and remind you that YES YOU CAN!”

Margie Tuttle’s dedication, expertise, and unwavering belief in the strength of cancer survivors make her an invaluable partner to Survivor Fitness. 

Ready to start your journey with a compassionate and expert trainer like Margie? Learn more about our programs and apply today!

Stronger Together: How Partner Workouts Can Boost Recovery and Connection after Cancer

man using rowing machine at gym while fellow supporters cheer

Exercise is one of the most effective tools for long-term healing after cancer. In fact, a recent study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that recommended levels of physical activity significantly reduced the risk of dying from several common types of cancer. And here’s the best part: the more a person exercised, the better their odds.

But figuring out where to begin with exercising after cancer treatment can feel overwhelming. You might wonder what your body is capable of, worry about doing too much too soon, or simply feel unsure about how to start moving again. And let’s be honest—taking that first step is even harder if you’re doing it alone.

That’s exactly why Survivor Fitness exists. We were founded to make sure cancer survivors don’t have to navigate life after treatment by themselves. Whether it’s working one-on-one with a certified fitness coach, building a healthier relationship with food through nutritional guidance, or finding emotional support with a licensed therapist, we believe in the power of walking alongside one another. 

The Benefits of Partner Workouts After Cancer

Working out with a spouse, a friend, a family member, or a coach can make fitness more fun and boost your recovery and overall well-being in some surprising ways.

1. A Support System Beyond Treatment

When treatment ends, the support you had during that season from doctors, nurses, and caregivers often fades. But the need for support doesn’t end when treatment does. You still need people in your corner. Partner workouts create a sense of community and shared purpose that can be incredibly grounding during recovery.

At Survivor Fitness, we see this every day. Participants show up for their first session feeling uncertain or even a little fearful. But by the end, they’re stronger and more confident, often walking away with lasting friendships. 

Survivor Fitness participant Michael Burke’s story is a great example of this. His words about his trainer Jordyn, showed a deep and meaningful connection. 

“She has become a great friend, and I am convinced that she and Olivia Fazini, another trainer at the gym, have quite literally kept me alive.”

2. Motivation and Accountability

Some days, it’s just hard to show up. Finding the motivation to exercise after cancer treatment can be tough. But when you know someone else is counting on you, it’s easier to stick with your routine. Partner workouts give you that extra nudge on the tough days, and they’re a reason to celebrate your wins together when you hit a new milestone.

Some Survivor Fitness participants even enjoyed the power of partner workouts from a distance. Here’s how one individual described her online sessions with a trainer: 

“Emma made the class fun, and I gained strength week by week. It is not easy with age, but I am grateful that she helped me obtain my goal of getting stronger again.”

3. Emotional Connection

Cancer can feel isolating, and that isolation doesn’t always disappear once treatment is over. Exercising with someone you trust can create space for meaningful conversation, laughter, and emotional connection. You’re working on your physical health while also building mental and emotional health.

As Survivor Fitness participant Karin Downs explained, “The Survivor Fitness Program renewed my confidence in my body and my ability to do various activities; it has reminded me that I can do almost anything if I work hard, persevere, and stay committed to the activity or task—and also to trying new things.” 

4. A Shared Path Forward

When you work out with a partner, you’re improving your own health while investing in someone else’s journey. Whether they’ve also faced cancer or they’re just showing up to support you, there’s something powerful about working toward wellness together.

Survivor Fitness participant Suzanne Gaulden is a great example of the mutual connection that can be found in having a partner walk alongside you. 

“I got stronger, faster, and I feel fitter. But more than anything, I made a friend that I will have for a long time. Ainsley was the perfect trainer for what I needed at that time in my life.” 

Resources to Help You Get Started

Not sure where to start? We’ve pulled together a few of our favorite resources to help you and your workout partner build a routine that works for both of you.

You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

If you’re just finishing treatment or you’ve been in survivorship for a while, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our programs at Survivor Fitness are designed to meet you where you are and walk with you every step of the way. Personal connection and encouragement are at the heart of everything we do, and we’ve seen our programs transform hundreds of lives.

Apply today or reach out to talk with someone from our team.

And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook to stay in the loop about upcoming group fitness classes, events, and more ways to connect with other survivors and supporters.