Partner Spotlight: Lori Halton 

lori halton headshot

Nutrition plays an essential role in recovery after cancer treatment. It can help rebuild strength, increase energy, and restore a sense of normalcy. But for many survivors, it’s not always easy to know where to start. That’s why Survivor Fitness is grateful for partners like Lori Halton, a registered dietitian and board-certified specialist in oncology nutrition who helps participants take charge of their health through personalized nutrition guidance.

Lori’s career has always centered around helping people through cancer recovery. Originally from Toronto, Canada, Lori moved with her family to Miami in 2017. She began her career as an oncology dietitian in numerous cancer centers across North America before opening her private nutrition practice.

We sat down with Lori to discuss the power of nutrition in survivorship, why she’s inspired by our community, and the best advice she has for those on the healing journey.

“Survivor Fitness has built a community where participants feel connected and confident to continue maintaining healthy habits beyond the program,” Lori shared. “It’s a privilege to be part of that journey.”

Closing the Gap in Survivorship Care

Lori’s connection with Survivor Fitness began when she opened her private practice. She was looking for ways to continue supporting cancer patients outside of a traditional hospital environment. A mutual friend connected her with a Survivor Fitness personal trainer, and she immediately knew the program was a perfect fit.

“As an oncology dietitian, I have always believed there is a gap in the system,” she shared. Lori noticed that once treatment ended in many cancer centers, survivors were often left to move forward without essential nutritional guidance. 

As a Survivor Fitness partner, Lori has helped fill that gap by working with approximately 50 individuals so far. She providespersonalized nutrition education focused on healthy eating to enhance an individual’s quality of life. She also spends time debunking common food myths and empowering survivors to make informed dietary choices.

“Witnessing participants gain knowledge, build strength, and feel more confident about the foods they are choosing is so gratifying,” Lori says.  

Watching Transformation Happen

When asked about her favorite part of working with participants, Lori didn’t hesitate: “Seeing the progress.”

“I derive tremendous satisfaction from providing participants with the tools for success and then watching them achieve it,” she said. “It’s incredible to see their confidence grow week after week.”

One story, in particular, stands out in her mind. “I worked with a participant who was hesitant to join Survivor Fitness,” Lori shared. “She wasn’t interested in cooking, had gained weight during treatment, and felt weak and afraid of falling.”

Together, they talked about nutrition as one piece of a larger picture that also includes exercise, sleep, stress management, and community. “Over the course of twelve weeks, she embraced every aspect of the program,” Lori said. “She lost inches around her waist, gained strength, and even found joy in cooking again. She built permanent healthy habits that completely changed her confidence.”

That transformation, Lori says, is what keeps her motivated. “She’s the perfect example of why I love what I do,” she said.

Nutrition Advice for Cancer Survivors

When it comes to nutrition after cancer, Lori emphasizes that she doesn’t use a cookie-cutter plan. “Every survivor’s needs are different based on their diagnosis, treatment, and long-term side effects,” she explained. “That’s why working with a registered dietitian — especially one trained in oncology — can make such a difference.”

Lori’s approach is rooted in evidence-based recommendations from the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR). She typically encourages a plant-forward diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, legumes, nuts, and seeds.

“Lean proteins are also essential for maintaining muscle and aiding recovery,” she added. “And I always encourage fiber-rich foods for gut health and adequate hydration throughout the day.”

She also notes a growing trend in anti-inflammatory eating patterns, which emphasize minimally processed whole foods that are nutrient-dense and high in fiber. “These patterns help manage chronic inflammation, support the immune system, and align perfectly with what survivors need to stay healthy after treatment,” she said.

Helping Survivors Build a Foundation for the Future

Lori knows that starting a nutrition journey can feel overwhelming, especially after cancer treatment. “The financial burden after a diagnosis is stressful, and personal trainers, dietitians, and mental health support can feel out of reach,” she said. “Survivor Fitness meets people where they are, providing all of these resources at no cost.”

Her final piece of advice is simple but powerful: “Take advantage of all the support available. Nutrition, exercise, and mental health are all connected. When survivors embrace each part, they’re setting themselves up to thrive, not just survive.”

Survivor Fitness participants, guided by experts like Lori, are learning that small, consistent changes in nutrition can make a lasting impact on their recovery.

Learn more about our fitness, nutrition, and mental health programs for cancer survivors, or apply today to take the next step in your journey.

If you’re a trainer, registered dietitian, or mental health counselor and want to learn more about becoming a Survivor Fitness partner, contact our team.

Board Member Spotlight: Kelsey Brown

At Survivor Fitness, we’re proud to have a board filled with talented professionals who bring their hearts to our mission. Each person around the table shares a deep commitment to helping cancer survivors rebuild their strength physically, mentally, and emotionally after treatment.

One of those dedicated leaders is Kelsey Brown, marketing strategy manager for Covenant Health in Knoxville. Kelsey brings a unique perspective shaped by her career in healthcare and her own personal connection to the survivor community. 

The Personal Connection: From Marketing to Mission

Kelsey first learned about Survivor Fitness through her friend and fellow board member, Whitney Biggs. The connection was an immediate fit, aligning Kelsey’s professional work in healthcare with a cause close to her heart.

“In my role at Covenant Health, I work closely with our oncology service line and have a front-row seat to so many inspiring patient stories. When I learned about Survivor Fitness, I immediately saw an opportunity to help people beyond the clinical setting.”

For Kelsey, the motivation goes deeper than her job description. It’s rooted in a life-changing experience from her early twenties: watching her mother, who was the picture of health, face an invasive breast cancer diagnosis.

“That news absolutely rocked our world,” she recalls. “Watching her battle through chemotherapy, surgery, and recovery with such strength and hope changed my perspective on life.”

Through her mom’s journey, Kelsey saw firsthand how much support survivors need once treatment ends. “Survivor Fitness’s mission resonates with me so deeply because it extends care to survivors after their medical treatment ends,” she said. “It truly feels like a continuation of care, and I know from my mom’s journey just how important that support is.”

Her personal story combined with her professional background in oncology marketing made joining the Survivor Fitness board a natural fit.

When Worlds Collide: Clinical Care Meets Wellness

Kelsey’s role at Covenant Health allows her to see where the patient journey often ends and when recovery after treatment truly begins. Her work experience makes the mission of Survivor Fitness especially clear and impactful to her. 

One moment that stands out to Kelsey is meeting a former Covenant Health patient who later joined Survivor Fitness after treatment. “They received excellent care clinically and then continued their journey with Survivor Fitness to rebuild their strength,” she said. “Seeing those two worlds—clinical care and survivor wellness—come together is incredibly rewarding. It really highlights that we’re making a difference at every step of someone’s recovery.”

This connection reinforces why the mission is so crucial. While cancer survival rates are improving, there is still a significant gap in support once the active treatment phase is over. 

The Future is Strong

As Survivor Fitness continues to grow, Kelsey is excited about what’s ahead for the organization and the survivors it serves. “There is so much opportunity in the future of Survivor Fitness,” she said. “The organization recognized a critical gap in support for survivors and stepped up to fill it. Every new survivor we can help inspires us to push further.”

When asked what advice she’d share with participants in the program, Kelsey didn’t hesitate. “Take advantage of all of the services—personal training, nutrition, and mental health counseling,” she said. “You’ve fought a tough battle, and you deserve all the support available. By embracing every resource in the program, you’ll set yourself up to become even stronger and healthier in this next chapter.”

A Champion for Survivors

Whether she’s helping tell survivor stories through her work at Covenant Health or serving as a voice for the Survivor Fitness mission, Kelsey Brown is passionate about helping people heal, grow, and thrive.

Her blend of professional insight and personal compassion makes her an invaluable part of the Survivor Fitness community and a shining example of how hope and healing go hand in hand.

Participant Spotlight: Melanie Waller

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.

Participant Spotlight: Marva Steed

Every cancer survivor navigates a unique journey to reclaim their health and well-being after treatment. While the experience is undoubtedly challenging, many find that the process of recovery can be a catalyst to emerge stronger and more resilient than they were before their diagnosis.

Marva Steed’s journey through diagnosis and recovery is a testament to extraordinary resilience. Her battle for health didn’t begin with cancer; it started two years prior with a life-threatening encounter with a novel virus that shattered her physical foundation.

The Double Battle: Fighting COVID Recovery and Cancer Complications

In March 2020, Marva became one of the first people in America to be diagnosed with COVID-19. “I spent 13 days on a ventilator, which caused significant muscle atrophy,” she recalled. Just as she was rebuilding her strength, her health was dealt another blow. In May of 2022, she received a breast cancer diagnosis. 

Marva’s cancer journey required a double mastectomy. Unfortunately, the path to recovery was complicated by serious setbacks. During the surgery, she contracted pseudomonas, a severe infection that necessitated an emergency surgery just two weeks later, requiring the complete removal and redoing of the reconstruction.

“Obviously, the recovery was longer than expected and unfortunately brought more muscle atrophy,” Marva explains. 

After battling COVID-induced weakness, major surgery, and all the complications that followed, Marva found herself physically depleted. The years of effort to get back on her feet had been erased, leaving her discouraged and out of shape.

Finding the Courage to Start with Survivor Fitness

Once she had physically recovered from the mastectomy surgeries, Marva’s plastic surgeon gave her a flyer for Survivor Fitness and strongly suggested she look into the program to regain strength. The idea was planted, but the action took time.“It took a little while to get the courage to make the contact,” Marva admits. “I was initially embarrassed to join as I was so out of shape.”

It’s a common feeling among survivors—the body that once endured so much trauma now feels unfamiliar and weak. But Marva found the support she needed to push past the hesitation. 

In January 2025, she took the necessary leap, connecting with Survivor Fitness and beginning her strength training journey with her coach, Paige Rugaard, at Chadwick’s Fitness in Franklin, TN. Paige was incredibly encouraging, creating a safe and motivating environment that Marva needed.

Marva was amazed at her progress, even after a few short weeks. Not only has she regained her functional strength, but the program has instilled a deeper sense of self-worth. “It’s also given me a sense of pride and excitement that I did something for myself that will help improve my chances of remaining cancer-free.”

The result is a renewed and robust outlook on life. “I’m proud to say, I am stronger now and more motivated to stay active than ever before.” 

Marva credits Survivor Fitness for giving her the push she needed: “I owe so much to Survivor Fitness for giving me the opportunity, as I don’t believe I would have ever taken the necessary steps to do it on my own.”

The Importance of the First Step

Having fought back twice from severe physical setbacks, Marva offers simple but profound advice to other cancer survivors who may be facing their own post-treatment battles. She understands that the weight of weakness, isolation, and embarrassment can be paralyzing.

“Finding motivation and humbling myself to take the first step and make the connection with Survivor Fitness was definitely the hardest part of the journey.”

That first step, she says, is the hardest. But the benefits far outweigh the fear. Her message is clear: “Put all the fear aside and just do it. You’ll be so glad you did.”

The measurable success Marva achieved through her partnership with Paige solidified the program’s value in her eyes. “I don’t believe I would have ever regained my strength without the program. I’m stronger now than I have been in many years.”

The fact that this transformative recovery is offered at no cost to the survivor is, as Marva puts it, “truly amazing.” Marva completed her initial program in April 2025. Determined to maintain her hard-won progress, she decided to purchase more sessions to continue her strength training with the team she trusts.

Join the Survivor Fitness Community

Marva Steed didn’t just survive two major health crises; she emerged stronger than she’s been in years. By finding the courage to take the first step, she turned her recovery from a daunting chore into a source of pride and a commitment to a healthier, stronger future.

If you or someone you know is a cancer survivor ready to reclaim health and strength, Survivor Fitness offers personalized fitness, nutritional, and mental health programs to support you.

Learn more about how to start your personalized recovery program today!

Participant Spotlight: Corinne Davis

The feeling of a life-altering diagnosis can often be compounded by its timing. For Corinne Davis, a routine mammogram in June 2024 revealed hormone-positive HER2-negative breast cancer, arriving just four days after celebrating her son’s fifth birthday and two months after her 41st birthday. As she describes it, “It could not have happened at a worse time.”

Corinne, who self-identifies as an athlete at her core, found her life abruptly rerouted. After a lumpectomy in August that showed the cancer had spread to her lymph nodes, she faced a brutal regimen of eight rounds of chemotherapy followed by 21 rounds of radiation that stretched from October 2024 to March 2025. While she finished chemo and radiation with strength and grit, the emotional and physical toll of treatment lingered long afterward.

The Unseen Damage: Starting Over After Treatment

For cancer survivors, the moment treatment ends is rarely the moment healing begins. For Corinne, the consequences were significant.

“The cancer treatment drastically affected my mental, emotional, and physical well-being,” she says.

After finishing treatment, Corinne found herself struggling with basic, functional movements. She was in desperate need of a structured program that could bridge the gap between physical therapy and a full return to her active life. The fear of losing consistency and momentum led her to search for help.“I was fearful that I would not be able to remain consistent with my fitness alone. I needed help, and Survivor Fitness showed up right on time,” she recalls.

A Partnership in Recovery: Finding Herself Again 

The Survivor Fitness program managers helped Corinne connect with a dedicated team at 360 Fitness, where trainer Marissa guided her through every movement and exercise.“She pushed me when I needed it and provided great feedback on how to perform the movements that were more difficult for me to understand,” Corinne explains. The personalized attention and knowledgeable training environment allowed her to redefine herself.

“Being an athlete has always been who I am at my core. The Survivor Fitness program and 360 Fitness have made me feel like I can be athletic again. Breast cancer took so much from me, but this program did not let it take my strength, endurance, or mobility.”

For Corinne, this journey was about much more than just lifting weights; it was an act of reclamation.

“It was important for me to reclaim my health. I wanted to see the healed version of myself. An inactive Corinne is not an authentic Corinne. I wanted to look in the mirror to see an accurate representation of who I truly am.”

Corinne’s story shows the powerful things that happen when the medical side of care and the wellness side of recovery join forces. When doctors and wellness programs like ours work together,  survivors are supported in every part of the healing process, during treatment and beyond.

Connection and Community: Continuing the Journey with a New Perspective

Corinne’s fight continues. Because her cancer was hormone-positive, she faces a long-term treatment plan: ten years of ovarian suppression injections, aromatase inhibitors, and CDK4/6 inhibitors. These medications, though life-saving, can cause debilitating side effects. But with the structure and support of Survivor Fitness, Corinne has found a way to combat these challenges head-on. 

“The post-cancer medications I take to prevent recurrence are brutal on my body, causing weight gain, bone loss, fatigue, and joint pain. Survivor Fitness has helped me take back what cancer stole from me.”

Her experience has shifted her perspective on life, moving her toward a philosophy of connection and community. She recognizes the profound isolation she felt during and after treatment.“Survivor Fitness gave me a reliable and committed fitness community. It makes a huge difference knowing I have a community of trainers that work with me to help me achieve my goals.” 

Equally important has been her family.

“I am forever grateful for my family and friends who supported me and dropped everything in their lives to show up for me. My husband continues to show up and do what is needed—he is my rock. My son has handled everything so well despite how much it rocked his world!”

Ready to Rebuild?

Corinne Davis’s journey illustrates how post-treatment life doesn’t have to be a return to life with limitations—it can be a reclamation of strength, confidence, and joy.

Her story also underscores the value of integrated survivorship—making sure medical treatment and wellness programs connect to help individuals recover and heal holistically. 

Thanks to the generous support of our partners  at Williamson Health, we can make the Survivor Fitness program available to more people who need it. This partnership allows survivors like Corinne to continue their healing with the strength and community they deserve.

If you or a loved one is a cancer survivor struggling to regain strength, mobility, and confidence after treatment, Survivor Fitness can help you write your own comeback story.

Take the first step toward reclaiming your authentic self. Learn more about our Survivor Fitness programs or apply today!

Participant Spotlight: David Staton

David Staton standing near a bridge

For most people, cancer comes without warning. One day you’re managing life as usual, and the next you’re facing appointments, treatment decisions, and an uncertain future. And even when treatment ends, you’re faced with the new challenge of deciding how to move forward and reclaim your life. 

For Survivor Fitness participant David Staton, that decision came with a clear motto: Choose life.

David faced cancer head-on with grit and determination. But he’ll be the first to tell you that the journey isn’t easy. From treatment side effects to mental battles and the weight cancer places on loved ones, David faced many significant challenges and difficult decisions. 

Choosing to participate in Survivor Fitness’ personal fitness program was one of the “easy choices” that helped him regain not only his strength but his confidence.

Facing an Unexpected Diagnosis

“I was the guy who was always healthy,” David shared. “Rarely went to the doctor.”

In 2020, David started working out regularly after a little encouragement from his daughter. That small shift toward a more active lifestyle would lay a foundation he didn’t realize he would need.

“In 2022, after experiencing symptoms, I was diagnosed with advanced, aggressive cancer,” he said. “Being in the gym leading up to that prepared my body for the fight ahead.”

But nothing truly prepares you for the toll that cancer treatment takes both physically and mentally. 

“When you find yourself weak, unable to do what you’ve always done, it can really affect your mental state,” he said. “And wondering if the cancer will return is always on your mind.”

Finding Strength Again with Survivor Fitness

After finishing treatment, David knew he didn’t want to slip back into survival mode. He wanted to live. 

“I was not ready to roll over and give up,” he said. “Survivor Fitness showed me that you can get your life back.”

David’s connection to Survivor Fitness came through his daughter, who was friends with Survivor Fitness Trainer Carrie Loughlin at A|Train Fitness in Nashville. When Carrie learned about David’s diagnosis, she assured his daughter that Survivor Fitness could help. 

“I’m thankful for my introduction to Survivor Fitness  every day,” he said.

The experience made a significant impact from the very beginning.

“Carrie knows how chemo affects your body, and she knows the steps to take to begin  working out consistently again,” David explained. “She showed me that I can do more than I think. Getting over that mental obstacle is so important.”

Throughout his time with Survivor Fitness, David has built a new kind of discipline.

 “I do not view fitness as an option or a hobby,” he said. “Fitness is the gateway to life and health. I don’t work out because I feel like it, I work out because I want to live.”

“I incorporate what I’ve learned into every workout,” David shared. “Survivor Fitness has given me tools I use every day.”

The Bigger Picture

While David’s personal growth has been powerful, he’s also mindful of the impact his cancer diagnosis had on his family—especially his wife.

“It not only takes a toll on you, it affects everyone in your life,” he said. “Watching my wife completely shift from normal life to being my caregiver has been hard. She deserves the world after all she has done.”

Today, David shares his story with others, encouraging fellow survivors to take their next steps toward recovery and healing. 

“I have told so many people who have similar stories about Survivor Fitness,” he said. “Recent clinical studies show how important exercise is in the fight against cancer. You can’t just depend on medicine alone. There are things you can do that will make a difference.”

Get Involved with the Survivor Fitness Community

David’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery is more than just surviving; it’s about making intentional choices to reclaim your strength and your life. At Survivor Fitness, we’re honored to walk alongside participants like David, who are choosing life each day.

Whether you’re a cancer survivor ready to take your next step or someone looking to support this mission, we invite you to learn more about our programs or get involved today. 

Board Member Spotlight: Brad Jones

brad jones survivor fitness board member headshot

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.

Board Member Spotlight: Brian Marger

Brian Marger head shot

At Survivor Fitness, we’re proud to have a board made up of leaders who bring both professional expertise and a personal commitment to supporting cancer survivors. Brian Marger is one of those leaders. 

When it comes to understanding cancer survivors, few people know the importance of comprehensive care better than Brian. As CEO of TriStar Skyline Medical Center in Nashville, Brian has spent nearly two decades in healthcare leadership, including time as the regional vice president for cancer services with the Sarah Cannon Cancer Network. 

But his commitment to helping others goes beyond his professional experience. Brian is both a cancer survivor and a Survivor Fitness participant. His perspective as a healthcare leader and survivor makes his voice on the Survivor Fitness board invaluable.

A Personal Connection to the Mission

Brian first learned about Survivor Fitness in 2024 through a friend and fellow board member who recognized how closely aligned our mission was with his own personal story. 

“I felt very connected to an organization that focused on encouraging survivors to thrive despite their challenging condition,” Brian shared. “Being a cancer survivor whose fitness deteriorated significantly post-treatment, I know how hard it can be to rebuild strength and confidence after cancer.”

Diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), Brian went through rigorous treatment and completed his care two years ago. But the journey after treatment created new challenges that many cancer survivors know all too well. 

“From a cancer care perspective, I feel survivorship continues to be underserved,” he said. “There is little guidance on how to move forward after treatment. Survivor Fitness stresses emotional and physical health both during and after cancer care. That really resonates with me and my experience.”

Leading It By Living It

One of the things that makes Brian’s involvement with Survivor Fitness so unique is his direct experience as a participant in the program. He knows firsthand what it means to take those first difficult steps back into fitness and how much of a difference the right support can make.

“Starting is the hardest part,” Brian said. “It took me a while to believe that I could be strong again and feel good. But you will be amazed at how much better you feel as you progress through the programs.”

His personal experience fuels Brian’s passion for the work Survivor Fitness is doing and strengthens his belief in the organization’s future.

“I have experienced how Survivor Fitness can motivate and support participants long after the rigorous cancer treatments are completed,” he said. “And I’m excited to see the growing reach of our programs each year.”

A Future Full of Possibility

As a board member, Brian brings a depth of healthcare knowledge and a personal investment in helping Survivor Fitness grow.

“I truly enjoy working with fellow board members from different backgrounds but with common goals and motivations,” he shared. “I hope the breadth and depth of our programs continue to expand during my tenure.”

For Brian, the mission is clear: help cancer survivors regain strength, rebuild confidence, and thrive. 

We are incredibly grateful to have Brian as part of the Survivor Fitness board. His personal journey, professional leadership, and passion for helping others make a lasting impact on the lives of the survivors we serve.

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!