At Survivor Fitness, we’ve seen firsthand how survivors rebuild their strength and create a ripple effect that inspires others. Over the years, participants have stayed engaged through advocacy, fundraising, and sharing their stories.
Brad Jones is one of those participants. What began as his personal journey with cancer has grown into a powerful commitment to helping other survivors heal.
Brad’s Survivor Fitness Journey
Brad was first introduced to Survivor Fitness at the 2023 Nashville Survivor Soirée. At the time, he was a recently diagnosed cancer patient navigating the uncertainty of his future.
“I was invited by fellow Survivor Fitness board member Michelle Hunter,” Brad shared. “Hearing the heartfelt stories of other survivors and how the program helped them reclaim their strength was so inspiring. I immediately knew I wanted to participate in the Survivor Fitness training program after my surgery.”
Like many survivors, Brad found that finishing treatment was only the beginning. The question of how to regain strength, both physically and mentally, still lingered. Survivor Fitness provided the structure and support he needed. Through his sessions with trainer David Rogers at A|Train Fitness, Brad began to rebuild his strength and confidence.
The connection extended beyond fitness. “We have a shared interest in gardening and enjoy exchanging recipes,” Brad said. “He and his family have also been the beneficiaries of some really spicy ghost peppers that we’ve grown in the garden.”
This blend of physical recovery and personal connection made Brad’s Survivor Fitness journey deeply meaningful. He continues to train with David today, incorporating what he learned into his ongoing health and wellness routine.
From Participant to Advocate
For Brad, Survivor Fitness didn’t stop when the program ended. He and his family decided to make the mission their “varsity philanthropy.” Together, they found creative ways to support the organization and spread awareness.
“We participated in Rock the Row with our 18-year-old son Ben. Our 13-year-old son Jett sold lemonade, and our 21-year-old son Parker helped promote our participation broadly via social media,” Brad explained.
Their passion was even recognized publicly when the family was featured in an article by the Middle Tennessee Community Foundation. The accompanying photo showed Brad proudly wearing his Survivor Fitness t-shirt.
“What resonates most with me,” Brad said, “is that thanks to advances in medicine and the physicians, nurses, and researchers at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, more people are surviving cancer. Yet it is not enough to survive—we want to thrive. Survivor Fitness is uniquely qualified to help cancer survivors thrive.”
Looking Ahead as a Board Member
Brad’s personal journey and advocacy naturally led him to join the Survivor Fitness board. As both a participant and a leader, he brings a unique perspective that blends lived experience with a vision for the future.
“I am so excited to see the group continue to grow, replicate the program, and provide services beyond Tennessee,” he shared. “Survivor Fitness has a very clear mission, and I relish the opportunity to work with my friends and fellow board members to achieve these goals. I would love to break the $1 million fundraising goal during my tenure.”
When asked what advice he’d give to others, Brad’s response reflects both his survivor’s mindset and his passion for the mission: “Surviving cancer is just the beginning. Survivor Fitness can help you thrive.”
Contributing to the Team Effort
Brad knows his journey has not been one he’s walked alone. “Participating in Survivor Fitness is a team sport,” he said. “I could not have been successful without the support of my wife, kids, family, friends, and the board. I am particularly grateful for Meg and Aaron Grunke and for their vision to launch this unique organization.”
As Survivor Fitness continues to grow, leaders like Brad Jones remind us that the impact of the program extends far beyond individual participants. His story is a testament to resilience, advocacy, and the power of choosing to pursue a thriving life.
