Participant Spotlight: Rhonda VanCleave

Rhonda VanCleave

Rebuilding your life after cancer treatment rarely happens in a vacuum. Long after the clinical appointments end, the everyday world keeps moving. For many survivors, the challenge lies in navigating life’s major milestones—both the joyful moments and the deeply difficult ones—while your body is still healing. 

Learning how to listen to your body and care for it can be one of the most important parts of recovery.

For busy grandmother Rhonda VanCleave, Survivor Fitness helped her do exactly that. Her story is a powerful reminder that true recovery is not about forcing yourself to go at full speed all the time. It is about understanding your body and giving yourself the grace to slowly build back up.

Overcoming the Energy Slump

Rhonda’s cancer journey began in 2016 when she was diagnosed with thyroid cancer and underwent a thyroidectomy. Several years later, in May 2023, she faced another diagnosis. This time it was breast cancer. She underwent lumpectomies on both breasts after doctors discovered cancerous tumors in each. Later that year, she completed bilateral proton radiation. Like many survivors, her treatment eventually came to an end. Her fatigue didn’t.

“I had little to no energy and what felt like the inability to rise above it,” Rhonda recalls.

She knew she wanted to feel stronger again, but getting started felt overwhelming.

“I knew I needed help to get over the slump.”

A Different Kind of Fitness Experience

Recognizing that she could not break the cycle of inactivity on her own, she took the leap to look for outside support. The opportunity arrived via an email from Oncovery, which introduced her to Survivor Fitness. In late 2025, she was paired with personal trainer Randianne Sears at Evolve Fitness.

Like many people entering a post-cancer exercise program, Rhonda wasn’t entirely sure what to expect.

“I imagined being sweaty and sore and pushed to improve,” Rhonda admits. “But I was pleasantly surprised. Randianne was super encouraging from day one. She challenged but did not push. She made me feel good about any progress, physical or mental.”

That personal connection changed everything. Working out stopped feeling like a grueling chore and became an empowering discovery process. While Rhonda did sweat during her sessions, it felt good because it was rooted in a newfound desire to improve and an awareness of what her body could truly achieve.

“I learned more than I expected. It wasn’t just about exercise, but how to do some things and why it impacts your body.”

Learning That Recovery Is Part of the Journey

One of the biggest lessons Rhonda carries with her today has little to do with weights or workouts. It’s about giving herself permission to recover. 

“I don’t feel like I’m failing when my body needs recovery time after an intense stretch emotionally or physically,” she says.

Survivor Fitness gave Rhonda the tools to navigate heavy emotional and physical seasons without feeling like she was failing. Whether she is stepping back from an intense stretch of grief—such as the recent passing of her mother—or simply recovering from a joyful, high-energy vacation week with her family, her perspective on rest has completely changed.

“Regardless of the reasons, good or bad, it’s okay to allow for some recovery time, then slowly build back up. Rather than feeling in a slump of inactivity, I accept that there are times of less energy, but each day is a new chance to do something active.”

That perspective has helped her replace guilt with confidence and consistency.

One Step Can Change Everything

Looking back, Rhonda says the hardest part of the entire experience wasn’t one particular workout. It was making the first appointment. Like many participants, she wasn’t sure what the program would be like or whether she was ready. Today, she’s grateful she took that first step.

“Do it!” she encourages other survivors. “The encouragement and accountability are great tools to get moving forward again.”

At Survivor Fitness, that’s exactly what we hope every participant discovers. Recovery isn’t about returning to who you were before cancer. It’s about learning how to care for the person you are today. With the right support, guidance, and encouragement, every small step forward becomes part of something much bigger.

Are you ready to break out of the post-treatment slump and learn how to support your body through every season of life? 

You don’t have to figure out the path to physical wellness on your own. Survivor Fitness provides personal fitness training, nutritional guidance, mental health counseling, and the community support you need to move forward.

Learn more about our programs or apply today to begin your own recovery journey.

Participant Spotlight: Mary Romano

Mary Romano survivor fitness participant

For more than two decades, Dr. Mary Romano has spent her career helping young people navigate complex health challenges. As an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital, she has dedicated her professional life to caring for patients and guiding families through difficult seasons.

In 2023, a breast cancer diagnosis forced a sudden, disorienting role reversal.

After her diagnosis, Mary began a treatment journey that included surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. While her medical training helped her understand the road ahead, it also brought a heightened awareness of the uncertainties and challenges that cancer treatment can bring.

“I am a physician, so it was incredibly challenging to be on that side of the doctor-patient relationship,” she shared. “Knowledge is a blessing and a curse.”

The Invisible Challenge of “Going Back to Normal”

While Mary managed to keep up with her demanding job throughout her treatments, the true challenge emerged after the clinical interventions ended. To the outside world, she seemed to be doing remarkably well.

“The return to work and ‘going back to normal’ was definitely harder than expected,” Mary shares. “It was something I felt others didn’t realize was happening, since I seemed ‘fine’ for the most part.”

Like many survivors, she discovered that returning to work and everyday routines was difficult. Her medical appointments became less frequent, but the effects of treatment remained. That experience helped her recognize something many survivors face: finishing treatment does not automatically mean recovery is complete.

Rebuilding Strength with Personalized Support

Mary wanted to regain her strength, balance, and flexibility, but she found herself struggling to return to the gym on her own. She wanted to get back into a routine, but she needed a dedicated space to process what her body had been through.

As Mary described her frustrations with her plastic surgeon, she recognized exactly what was missing and recommended Survivor Fitness.

“I knew I needed something else to move forward and past treatment,” Mary says. “I hadn’t really utilized any resources like this before and, honestly, I figured, why not!”

Starting the program allowed Mary to pause and acknowledge that her recovery was an ongoing process. Working one-on-one with a personal trainer provided a structured environment where she could safely focus on recovering her strength, balance, and flexibility. 

In many ways, Survivor Fitness also gave Mary permission to acknowledge something she had been pushing through for months.

“Survivor Fitness allowed me to pause and recognize that I was still recovering and that I still needed help to move forward,” she said. “Perhaps not to return to normal, but at least to feel more like myself.”

That shift in perspective helped her focus less on getting back to who she was before cancer and more on building strength for the future.

Grace, Time, and Patience

Today, Mary encourages other cancer survivors to be patient with themselves and to accept support when it’s offered.

“I would tell them to give themselves grace, time, and patience,” she said. “To ask for help and utilize resources when offered. You can never have too much help or too much support.”

Her experience also reinforced the importance of ongoing survivorship resources.

“Having the awareness and acknowledgment of the need for ongoing support and resources for survivors is important, no matter how far out you get from treatment and how ‘okay’ you seem to others.”

Our team at Survivor Fitness couldn’t agree more. We’re grateful that Mary trusted us to be part of her journey and thankful for the reminder that strength isn’t always about pushing through alone.

Are you ready to stop trying to force yourself “back to normal” and start moving forward on your own terms?

Whether you are navigating the physical side effects of treatment or trying to manage the mental transition back to everyday life, Survivor Fitness is here to support you with one-on-one fitness training, nutritional coaching, and mental health support

Learn more about our programs or apply today. You can also subscribe to our monthly newsletter for timely insights and tips for reclaiming your life after cancer treatment. 

Partner Spotlight: 3 Bridges CrossFit

3 Bridges CrossFit

In the world of post-treatment recovery, the gym can often feel like an intimidating place. For many survivors, the goal is to rediscover what their bodies are capable of after a life-changing event. Finding a coach who understands that transition is essential.

That’s one reason why we are thrilled to introduce one of our newest partners in the Chattanooga area: Mathias Porter, owner of 3 Bridges CrossFit & Personal Training. Mathias brings a unique background and a deep commitment to helping survivors move from the mindset of being a patient to someone who is getting stronger every day.  

From Service to Strength: A Natural Fit for the Mission

Mathias grew up on Signal Mountain just outside Chattanooga and has spent much of his life rooted in service. Before opening his gym, he graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy and served five years as a Navy EOD Officer. That background in high-stakes environments gave him a profound appreciation for resilience, but it was his passion for fitness that led him back home to Chattanooga. Mathias first connected with Survivor Fitness by hosting the Rock the Row fundraiser.

“Once I learned about the mission and what Survivor Fitness does for cancer survivors, I was excited to get more involved,” Mathias shared. That excitement turned into a formal partnership, and he is currently working with his first participant.

Focusing on Consistency Over Intensity

For Mathias, the key to a successful recovery routine is simple but profound: Consistency over intensity. 

“The temptation—especially for people who were active before their diagnosis—is to try to get back to where they were as fast as possible,” Mathias explained. “But recovery isn’t linear. The most important thing you can build in the early stages is the habit of showing up.”

Like our other fitness partners, Mathias develops an individualized plan for each participant. He meets participants exactly where they are, focusing on rebuilding capacity gradually and celebrating small wins. By creating a safe, supportive environment, he helps strip away the intimidation factor often associated with walking into a gym. 

Mathias also highlights a growing trend in fitness that is incredibly relevant for cancer survivors: the vital importance of strength training.

“More and more people are recognizing the real benefits of lifting weights—and not just for aesthetics,” Mathias said. “Strength training has a direct impact on longevity and mobility. Building and maintaining muscle mass supports bone density, improves functional movement, and helps the body handle the physical demands of daily life.”

For a survivor, these functional improvements mean reclaiming the ability to navigate daily life with confidence and ease.

Reclaiming an Identity of Strength

What inspires Mathias most is the mental shift that occurs during the 12-week program. He knows that the physical work in the gym serves a much larger emotional purpose.

“My favorite part about working with participants is knowing that through committing to their fitness journey, there is going to be a moment when they stop thinking of themselves as patients and start thinking of themselves as someone who is getting stronger again,” he shared. His advice for anyone on the fence about starting? Just walk through the door.

“The hardest rep is always the first one,” Mathias said. “You don’t need to know what you’re doing. You don’t need to be in shape to start getting in shape. What you need is one coach who sees you, one community that supports you, and the willingness to show up one time and see what happens.”

Are you a cancer survivor in Tennessee looking to rebuild your strength? We are proud to partner with personal fitness trainers like Mathias who are dedicated to your recovery.

Learn more about our programs or apply today to start your journey.

Participant Spotlight: Marian McDonald

Marian McDonald survivor fitness participant

For many cancer survivors, the suggestion of “going to the gym” doesn’t exactly spark joy. After months or years of clinical appointments, scans, and treatments, spending free time in another body-focused environment can be intimidating.

Marian McDonald shared that hesitation. In addition to recovering from breast cancer treatment, Marian was also navigating the complexities of living with multiple sclerosis. But her story is proof that with the right support, you can do hard things—and you might even find a new calling along the way.

Finding the Right Time to Heal

Marian’s journey began in July 2022 when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her path to recovery was long and grueling, involving a double mastectomy, reconstruction, chemotherapy, and eventually a hysterectomy. Because of MS, her body required a slower, more intentional pace for healing from cancer treatment.

She first heard about Survivor Fitness in late 2023, but she wasn’t ready yet. She still had surgeries on the calendar and needed time to process the weight of her diagnosis. It wasn’t until late 2025 that the opportunity resurfaced in what she calls “perfect timing.” In mid-December, she took the leap and began her intake process.

Overcoming the “Gym Hurdle” and Other Health Conditions

Marian didn’t hide her feelings when she met her trainer, Bree, at Tri-Fit Athletic Club in Murfreesboro. “I told her that I hated the gym,” Marian recalls telling her during their first meeting. “I’m sure that made a great impression.”

Beyond her mental hesitation, Marian’s MS caused weakness on one side of her body, creating constant balance issues. The reconstruction surgery had left her feeling physically limited and fearful that she might hurt herself if she pushed too hard.

However, Bree met Marian exactly where she was. She pushed her gently, encouraged her constantly, and taught Marian about a strength she had hidden away.

“There were things Bree said we were going to do, and I replied, ‘Yeah right,’ Marian remembers. “But I always said I would try, and usually that was all it took. I did hard things—things I never imagined I could.”

Finding a Community for New Hard Things

As the weeks passed, the woman who “hated the gym” found herself looking forward to her sessions. She began combining her Survivor Fitness exercises with her physical therapy to build a foundation of strength that helped combat fatigue and muscle weakness.

She also found vital support through her nutrition coach. Together, they tackled the difficult battle of weight gain caused by hormone blockers and medications for depression and anxiety. For Marian, having these tools made her feel prepared for the battle rather than overwhelmed by it. 

Her experiences also gave her a new sense of purpose. 

“After years of fighting to live, fighting to be a better version of me was a welcome change,” she shared.

Her nutrition coach even encouraged her to consider going back to school to become a Registered Dietitian specializing in oncology nutrition. It’s a big goal, but Marian isn’t backing down. “It’s a hard thing, but I can do it. I just have to find a way.”

A Message for Other Survivors

Marian’s journey is a reminder that self-confidence doesn’t always return the moment treatment ends. It is something that must be rebuilt, one step at a time. She encourages other survivors to talk to their oncologists, get a referral, and accept the opportunities that come their way.

“Becoming physically stronger was a huge accomplishment, but learning that I can do hard things was a great confidence builder,” she explained. 

Marian’s trainer and coaches have become a permanent part of her circle. She stepped into the program looking for health, and she walked away with a support system, a new career path, and the knowledge that she is capable of more than she ever imagined.

Are you ready to rediscover your strength and find a community that supports your unique journey?

Whether you are navigating post-treatment fatigue, managing other health conditions, or simply looking for a place to start, Survivor Fitness is here to walk alongside you.

Learn more about our programs or apply today to start your recovery journey.

Participant Spotlight: Olivia Leow

Olivia Leow survivor fitness participant

We often praise the strength it takes to get through a cancer diagnosis, but we rarely talk about the endurance needed to live in the “after.” Navigating life after treatment means carrying the heavy uncertainty of the future while trying to rebuild a body and mind that have been through a battle. It takes more than just a positive attitude; it takes a commitment to your own well-being. That commitment is exactly where Survivor Fitness starts. We help survivors navigate the gap between medical treatment and long-term wellness

For Olivia Leow, that “whatever it takes” mentality not only got her through treatment —it helped her find the resources to continue to heal so she could move forward with purpose.

Facing Cancer with “Whatever it Takes”

Olivia’s journey began in June 2021 after experiencing a few unusual visual changes. She drove herself to the emergency room, not knowing what to expect. Soon after, she heard the words no one is ever prepared for: “There is something on your brain.”

She was diagnosed with stage 2 astrocytoma, a form of brain cancer. From there, everything moved quickly. Olivia connected with her care team at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and began planning the next steps.

In August, she underwent an awake craniotomy to remove the tumor. After surgery came 27 rounds of radiation and six months of oral chemotherapy. Even now, she continues to undergo regular MRI scans and follow-ups with her oncologist. Through it all, Olivia held onto a simple but powerful mindset:

“My motto was ‘whatever it takes.’ I was willing to do whatever it takes to be the mom of my two young boys.”

That mindset carried her through some of the hardest moments, especially daily radiation treatments. Showing up each day, despite the pain and emotional toll, required everything she had.

Carrying the Weight of Uncertainty

At the time of her diagnosis, Olivia was raising two young boys, working full-time, and leading a nonprofit. At the same time, she was navigating her new reality. Her worries didn’t end when her treatment did. It continued in the form of “scanxiety” and the uncertainty about what the future might hold.

“My brain cancer diagnosis is heavy,” she shared. “I still fight anxiety about the future.”

The physical challenges were significant, and the mental and emotional weight was just as difficult. She used incredible endurance to make it through treatment and then had to figure out her next steps. 

Finding Holistic Support Through Survivor Fitness

Olivia was introduced to Survivor Fitness by Beth Jones, whose husband is a former participant and advocate for our mission. After attending the Survivor Fitness Soirée, Olivia was encouraged to apply. She saw it as an opportunity to focus on her health in a new way. She committed fully to the program, participating in all three areas: personal training, nutrition, and mental health support.

Olivia was paired with Carrie Loughlin, a trainer at A|Train Fitness in Nashville, and she began building strength again, both physically and mentally.

“I learned how to build strength and confidence in the gym,” she said.

At the same time, she worked with a therapist through BetterHelp. That support became a key part of her healing process.

“It was immensely helpful in talking through the trauma that comes with a cancer diagnosis.”

The nutrition component added another layer of support. She gained practical tools for fueling her body and caring for her family in a way that felt manageable. What made the biggest difference to her recovery was the opportunity to focus on herself.

“I am a busy mom of two with a full-time job. During my treatment, I was always focused on my family. This program gave me a chance to focus on what I needed as a cancer survivor.”

Her time in the gym became something she looked forward to. With the encouragement of her trainer, she began to feel strong again in a way she hadn’t in a long time.

“I could feel my body getting stronger, and I found myself actually looking forward to working out again.”

More importantly, the impact of Survivor Fitness didn’t end after 12 weeks. Olivia continues to carry what she learned into her daily life to manage anxiety, care for her body, and move forward with confidence.

“I use something that I learned from Survivor Fitness every day, whether it be meal prepping for my family or moving my body.”

Moving Forward with Purpose

Olivia’s story is a reminder that healing doesn’t stop when treatment ends. It’s a process that takes time, support, and intention. Her advice to other survivors is simple but honest:

“Often after the cancer treatment ends, your community may think you are back to normal. You’ve been through so much and aren’t the same person as before your diagnosis. Survivor Fitness is a program designed to help you return to health in every way.”

Whether you’re looking to rebuild strength, improve your nutrition, or find support for your mental health, Survivor Fitness is here to walk alongside you. You don’t have to navigate the next phase alone.

Learn more about our programs or apply today to take the next step in your recovery journey.

Board Member Spotlight: Kamadi Camp

Kamadi Camp survivor fitness board member

At Survivor Fitness, growth has always been fueled by people who bring both expertise and heart to the table. Our organization benefits from people who understand the clinical side of cancer care but also recognize that healing doesn’t stop when treatment ends.

That’s what makes Kamadi Camp such a meaningful addition to our board in 2026.

Kamadi serves as the Vice President for Oncology at Ascension Saint Thomas and brings more than 17 years of healthcare leadership experience, including a decade focused specifically on oncology strategy and growth. He’s known for building strong systems, strengthening partnerships, and helping programs scale in smart, sustainable ways. But what stands out most is his belief that survivorship deserves just as much attention as treatment.

A Personal & Professional Connection to the Mission

Kamadi first learned about Survivor Fitness through board member Liz Bagwell. From the start, something clicked.

“I immediately connected with the heart behind the mission,” he says. “As someone who has spent my career in oncology leadership, I’ve seen firsthand that survivorship is about much more than completing treatment. It’s about rebuilding strength, confidence, and identity.”

His perspective comes from both professional and personal experience. Throughout his career, Kamadi has worked alongside oncology teams and patients navigating the long road beyond treatment. He has seen how hard that transition can be. The support system changes once appointments slow down. Survivors are often left asking, “What now?”

On a personal level, the Survivor Fitness mission hits even closer to home.

“Walking through my mom’s cancer journey deeply shaped me,” he shares. “Like so many of us, I’ve experienced what cancer does to a family: the fear, the uncertainty, the resilience it demands. That experience made the mission of Survivor Fitness even more meaningful to me. It’s not just about recovery. It’s about restoration.”

That belief is what inspired him to join the board.

“What inspired me most was the tangible impact,” he says. “Survivor Fitness isn’t theoretical. It changes lives in real time by giving survivors confidence, community, and control.” 

Transforming Hope into Action

One of the things Kamadi finds most meaningful is seeing participants grow stronger emotionally and physically.

“Seeing participants regain confidence in their bodies is incredibly powerful,” he says. “Watching someone walk in with uncertainty and walk out stronger reinforces why this work matters.”

As Survivor Fitness continues to expand its reach across Tennessee and beyond, Kamadi is excited to help guide the organization into its next chapter.

“The opportunity for growth is huge,” he says. “There is tremendous potential to expand access, build partnerships, and increase awareness so more survivors can benefit.”

On the board, he hopes to bridge big-picture strategy with day-to-day impact. His strengths lie in operational leadership, long-term planning, and building programs that last.

“I’m excited to help bridge strategy and mission by building sustainable growth, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring operational excellence so the program can thrive long-term,” he explains.

In other words, he wants to make sure Survivor Fitness can serve not just hundreds more survivors, but thousands.

He sums it up simply: “Survivor Fitness represents hope in action. I’m honored to serve alongside a team that is committed to empowering survivors and building a healthier, stronger community.”

A Message for Survivors

When asked what advice he would offer participants, Kamadi’s words are gentle and encouraging.

“Your journey doesn’t end when treatment ends. Strength comes in phases. Give yourself grace, celebrate progress, and remember that you are capable of more than you think.”

It’s a reminder many survivors need to hear.

We’re grateful for leaders like Kamadi who combine experience with empathy and strategy with heart. His vision, passion, and personal connection to the mission make him a powerful advocate for every survivor we serve. We can’t wait to see the impact he helps create in the years ahead.

Board Member Spotlight: Sam Pyle

Board Member Sam Pyle

Survivor Fitness has grown quickly in recent years —a result of people who care deeply about survivors and who choose to give their time, talent, and heart to our mission. Samantha Pyle is one of those people.

From early board leadership to corporate sponsorship, Sam has been part of Survivor Fitness through several seasons of growth. And for her, the connection is both professional and deeply personal.

Drawn In by One Story, Staying for Thousands More

Samantha first learned about Survivor Fitness through an old friend, former board member and participant Ronn Hollis. The two worked together years earlier at St. Thomas Health Services and stayed in touch. After Ronn went through cancer treatment, they met for coffee to reconnect.

That’s when he told her about Survivor Fitness.

“After seeing how Survivor Fitness helped Ronn, I wanted to do all I could to help other survivors,” she says.

But her motivation went even deeper than friendship. Sam is the daughter of a cancer survivor. She’s seen up close what the long-term effects of treatment can look like, even after someone is declared cancer-free.

“As the daughter of a cancer survivor, I have seen firsthand the long-term effects of the disease and the treatments used to keep my mom alive,” she shares. “My mom and all cancer survivors deserve an organization that helps them get their life back after cancer.”

That focus on life after treatment is what stood out most to her.

Sam has volunteered with several well-known cancer organizations over the years, and each one plays an important role in supporting individuals during a difficult time. But Survivor Fitness felt different.

“I love that Survivor Fitness supports people in their new reality as a survivor,” she says. “There is no other organization like them, and through financial support, we’re able to offer all services for free to participants.”

Being Reminded of Why This Work Matters

Over the years, Sam has seen countless examples of the organization’s impact, but one moment at the 2025 Survivor Soirée reminded her just how much this work matters.

Sam invited her friends Ron Lustig and Robbie Lustig to join her table for the Soirée. Ron eagerly agreed because of his awareness of the organization. For years, Ron’s personal trainer had led sessions with Survivor Fitness participants.

When the event arrived, Ron appeared alone. He shared that his wife had received leukemia news earlier that day and couldn’t attend. Still, he chose to come to the event on her behalf.

“The event was extremely emotional,” Sam says. “I was so moved that even though Ron had received such difficult news, he still wanted to come and support the work of Survivor Fitness.”

Moments like that stick with her. They’re a reminder that Survivor Fitness isn’t just a program. It’s a community people lean on during some of the hardest days of their lives.

Turning Passion into Impact

Since first joining the board in 2019, Sam has taken on multiple roles, including serving as marketing chair and board chair. During her two years away from the board, she stayed connected as both a corporate sponsor and individual supporter. Now, she’s back for another four-year term, stepping into a new role as development chair.

Her goal is simple and ambitious at the same time. Help Survivor Fitness reach more people.

“The more money we raise, the more cancer survivors we can support,” she says.

Looking ahead, Sam is especially excited about the continued growth of Survivor Fitness’s mental health program, which she helped establish during her first board term.

“By adding that service, we can now take care of the body and mind,” she says. “That means a lot to me.”

And if she had one message for participants, it would be this: start where you are.

“Even if you’ve never worked out or never attended a therapy session, give it a try,” she says. “You don’t have to do it all at once. Ease into it. Every step counts.”

That steady, encouraging mindset mirrors the way Sam shows up for Survivor Fitness. Passionate. Committed. Focused on what’s possible.

“I will not stop until Survivor Fitness is a national nonprofit,” she says with a smile.

With leaders like Sam helping guide the way, that future feels closer every day.

Participant Spotlight: Beth Lehman

Beth Lehman Survivor Fitness participant

After cancer treatment ends, many survivors find themselves caught between the past and the future. There is a strong pull to feel normal again, to move their bodies, to keep up with their families, and to reclaim routines that once felt simple. At the same time, there is fear and fatigue. Fear of not knowing where to begin and a feeling of uncertainty while navigating lingering side effects and the lasting impact of treatment on their bodies.

For Beth Lehman, a young mother navigating life after breast cancer, that tension was very real. She wanted to feel strong again and to feel a sense of control over one part of her recovery. Through Survivor Fitness, she found a place to begin.

Facing Fatigue, Fear, and the Unknown

Beth received her breast cancer diagnosis in the fall of 2023. What followed was more than a year of intensive treatment and recovery.

“After completing multiple surgeries, chemo, antibody infusions, and radiation, moving into remission came with its own challenges,” Beth said. “Fatigue and low muscle tone were at the top of the list.”

As a working mother, the physical toll was heavy. Feeling tired and weak did more than affect her body. It affected her confidence. One of the most difficult aspects of cancer was the mental weight she felt.

“The hardest part of my experience with cancer was the mental aspect,” she shared. “Not knowing or seeing what was happening in my body has been very difficult.”

Finding a New Beginning

When treatment ended, Beth knew she needed help moving forward. She wanted to begin exercising again, but starting alone felt overwhelming.

“I wanted to start working out, but felt overwhelmed about starting from scratch on my own at a gym,” she said.

Her oncology team pointed her toward Survivor Fitness as a way to extend the personalized care she had received during treatment. Once she applied to the program, the process felt manageable.

“I got to pick a location and time convenient to my schedule and was matched with a personal trainer,” Beth said. “She is amazing.”

For Beth, one of the greatest gifts of the program was simply having a starting point.

“Survivor Fitness gave me a place to start and to move again. To have help getting scheduled, a place, a person, a starting date—it just all helped provide momentum that I could not generate myself after all of the treatments.”

Rebuilding Strength and Regaining Belief

Over the course of twelve weeks, Beth began rebuilding her strength with guidance and encouragement.

“My trainer was able to help me tone and strengthen during our sessions together,” Beth shared. “It honestly was such a morale boost to be able to take care of my body in a way that left me feeling stronger, and not weaker like all the chemo did.”

More importantly, Survivor Fitness gave Beth confidence. Her trainer was able to walk through specific routines and different ways to work out to hit all muscle groups. The knowledge she gained was just as great as the change in muscle tone that she saw.

“After completing twelve weeks with my personal trainer, I now feel more confident in understanding what my body needs to maintain its strength,” she said. “I feel better equipped to continue working out to maintain what my trainer helped me achieve.”

Choosing What She Can Control

As she looks ahead, Beth is honest about what she can and cannot control.

“I know I cannot control if my cancer returns,” she said. “But I can take care of my body in a way that supports overall health.”

At a recent oncology follow-up, her doctor reinforced that message. Staying active, caring for her body, and protecting both her physical and mental health now play a key role in maintaining remission.

Beth now encourages other survivors to seek support.

“I have been telling folks,” she shared. “I have encouraged several survivors to utilize this program to help them feel empowered and assisted in their pursuit of health.”

Her journey is a reminder that healing does not happen alone.

“We all need help in this life,” Beth said. “Support systems like this one are in place because they really do matter and make a difference.”

For Beth, Survivor Fitness offered more than a workout plan. It offered a way to rebuild strength one step at a time.

If you’re a cancer survivor or know someone who is, we invite you to learn more about our programs. Like Beth, take the first step and apply today

Participant Spotlight: Elizabeth Lindsay

Elizabeth Lindsay survivor fitness participant

Cancer has a way of shifting the ground under your feet. One week, you think you’re heading in a certain direction, and the next week, everything changes. A treatment works, then suddenly it doesn’t. A plan feels clear, then it has to be rewritten. Many survivors describe it as living with “moving goalposts.” It’s confusing and exhausting. At times, it can feel like everything is happening faster than you can process it.

For many years, this was Elizabeth Lindsay’s reality. But through Survivor Fitness, she found something she hadn’t felt in a long time: steadiness and a sense of control returning to her life. 

Facing a Fast-Moving Diagnosis

Elizabeth’s cancer journey began in July 2023 during what she expected to be a routine mammogram. When something looked unclear, she was called back for an ultrasound and then a biopsy. Within three weeks, she had walked in and out of the same imaging center multiple times, and deep down she sensed what was coming.

When her doctor’s office called and asked her to come in, she already knew. The confirmation came that afternoon: invasive ductal carcinoma, Stage 1A, triple positive.

Everything moved quickly after that. At her first oncology appointment, Elizabeth’s doctor took the time to explain everything — from her diagnosis and treatment plan to recurrence rates and things to consider around vitamins, nutrition, and exercise.

“My mind was absolutely spinning, and I almost missed her discussing losing my hair,” she recalled.

The long months that followed were filled with unexpected changes, drug reactions, schedule shifts, and physical challenges she never anticipated. She often describes that time with a phrase many survivors will recognize: “the goalposts kept moving.”

But through it all, she made it to each milestone: chemotherapy, lumpectomy, radiation, and immunotherapy were all completed by Christmas Eve the next year. Soon after treatment concluded, Elizabeth stepped into the next chapter of her healing.

Finding Survivor Fitness

During treatment, Elizabeth worked closely with an oncology counselor and an integrative oncology nurse practitioner who helped her manage the emotional and physical stress of cancer care. Her healthcare team suggested she look into Survivor Fitness as she neared the end of her immunotherapy. 

She did. And during her first call with Survivor Fitness staff, she mentioned—almost offhand—her partner MJ’s own history with kidney cancer. Immediately, she was asked something she didn’t expect:

“Would he like to do the program as well?” The answer was an easy yes.

In January 2025, just before her birthday, both Elizabeth and MJ began their 12-week programs. They were paired with trainers at Chadwick’s Fitness in Franklin and committed to two sessions a week. They had different trainers, different goals, and different paths for recovering from cancer, but they got to do it side by side.

Rebuilding Strength, Confidence, and Balance

Within a few weeks, Elizabeth began regaining muscle strength she’d lost during treatment, and she then surpassed her pre-cancer fitness levels. She became stronger, more flexible, and more confident in her body’s ability to move again. She lost body fat, built muscle, and felt herself returning—not just physically, but emotionally.

“The personal training has been outstanding,” she shared. “I’m more fit than I have been in too long to name.”

Elizabeth also participated in the nutrition coaching program, which added another layer of support. She learned how to fuel herself before and after workouts, found new sources of important nutrients, and gained clarity from a fresh set of eyes reviewing her lab work. 

“The nutrition coaching paired well with the training to help me with foods to eat before and after sessions,” she shared. 

Both her trainer and nutritionist helped her reshape her mindset to pursue progress, not perfection or unrealistic expectations.

“If you focus on progress, you get to keep stepping forward,” she said. “Even if you occasionally take a step back.”

Having people walk alongside Elizabeth on every step of her recovery journey made a world-changing difference. She felt seen, understood, and supported—not judged.

“Not all of my friends or family knew how to accept or support me,” she shared. “I appreciated my nutritionist celebrating my wins. Paige, my personal trainer, is my strongest cheerleader.”

Paying It Forward and Supporting Others

As strong as she feels today, Elizabeth hasn’t forgotten what those early days felt like. Her hope is to use her experience to help others navigate that same uncertainty. She’s even started writing what she jokingly calls her “Cancer 101 Procedural Manual.” Until that’s published, she shared a few pieces of encouragement for anyone beginning this journey:

  • The goalposts will move. Sometimes for the better, sometimes not. It’s okay.
  • Your relationships may shift. Some friends will pull closer. Others may step back. It’s okay.
  • Use every resource available—financial, physical, emotional.
  • And finally, “You are not fighting cancer. You are the battleground for the fight. The doctor is the warrior. The drugs are the weapon.”

Elizabeth’s strength is quiet but powerful, and her story reminds us that healing is not a straight line. It twists and turns. It changes direction. But it also leads to new chapters filled with hope, resilience, and growth.

For Elizabeth, Survivor Fitness became the bridge between what she had endured and the stronger, steadier version of herself she is today.

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. 

Partner Spotlight: Chelsea Johnson

Chelsea Johnson survivor fitness partner

For many cancer survivors, food can become complicated. Something that once felt simple or joyful can turn into a source of stress, confusion, or fear. Treatment changes how foods taste, and side effects make eating unpredictable. Online advice can feel overwhelming or even frightening. That’s why having a trusted oncology nutrition expert in your corner can make such a powerful difference.

Survivor Fitness is grateful to partner with Chelsea Johnson, a registered dietitian nutritionist. As one of only 16 board-certified specialists in oncology nutrition in the state of Tennessee, Chelsea works with survivors across East Tennessee through her private practice, Chelsea Johnson Nutrition, LLC. Her passion, expertise, and compassion have helped dozens of participants rebuild their relationship with food and regain confidence in their bodies.

“I’ve been a registered dietitian nutritionist for almost eight years, with most of my experience in outpatient oncology,” Chelsea shared. “Nutrition is such a big part of how people feel during and after treatment, and yet it’s often one of the least supported areas.”

From Family Experience to Personal Vocation

Chelsea’s passion for this work is deeply personal. She first became interested in oncology nutrition after watching family members go through cancer treatment without proper nutrition support.

“We had no help regarding food choices,” she explained. “We could have really used an oncology dietitian to help manage symptoms, build strength, and encourage a positive relationship with food. That experience stayed with me.”

Today, she sees that same fear and uncertainty in many survivors who walk through her door. But she also sees what happens when people get the right guidance. “I love watching participants come in with fears around nutrition and leave with confidence,” she said. “Seeing them feel empowered is the greatest reward.”

Chelsea’s connection to Survivor Fitness began after meeting co-founder Meg Grunke at an event in Knoxville. “I could feel Meg’s passion for cancer survivors right away,” she said. “It was motivating, contagious, and it made me want to be part of what she was building.”

That connection carried through Chelsea’s work in outpatient oncology, where she began referring patients to Survivor Fitness as they completed treatment. Now, as an affiliate dietitian, she has worked with more than 75 Survivor Fitness participants, helping them set nutrition goals that fit into their daily lives.

“It has been so rewarding working with Survivor Fitness participants,” Chelsea said. “I see them build confidence with food choices, manage symptoms better, and explore new foods. When nutrition, movement, and mental health are all addressed together, lifestyle change becomes so much more impactful.”

When Nutrition Changes Everything

One story Chelsea often shares involves a participant who was on a daily oral chemotherapy drug that caused severe, ongoing diarrhea issues. The side effect was so disruptive that she became afraid to eat, dehydrated, and isolated. She was even considering stopping the medication that was helping treat her cancer.

Through a personalized nutrition plan that included specific prebiotics, probiotics, hydration support, and gentle meal adjustments, everything changed. “After just a few weeks, she was able to stop her diarrhea medication, add more fiber back in, and even cook a balanced meal to enjoy with her family,” Chelsea said. “Her smile that day was the biggest I’ve ever seen. Nutrition truly improved her quality of life.”

Making Sense of Nutrition Trends for Cancer Survivors

One of Chelsea’s biggest goals is to reduce fear around eating. “Not one single food caused your cancer,” she said. “Misinformation can lead survivors to feel guilty or afraid. That’s not helpful or accurate.”

She often reminds participants that simple, steady habits matter more than perfection. “Boring nutrition advice is usually the correct advice,” she said. “Eating whole foods, moving more, sleeping well, and managing stress have the biggest impact.”

Chelsea encourages survivors to think about what they can add to their plate instead of what they need to take away. Plants, in particular, play a powerful role. “Plants are packed with phytochemicals and fiber, which support gut health, heart health, immune function, and healthy cell growth,” she explained. “Choose real foods first. Fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, and whole grains.”

Chelsea often hears questions about low-carbohydrate diets and high-protein trends. Instead of pushing strict rules, she takes a personalized approach. “A lot of survivors ask about cutting carbs because of fear or misinformation,” she said. “We talk about the science-backed strategies for life after cancer. Carbohydrates are our main fuel source. They support energy, strength, and focus.”

When it comes to protein, she works closely with participants to calculate what their bodies truly need and then find realistic ways to get there, especially for those dealing with taste changes or aversions after treatment.

Chelsea also integrates intuitive eating into her work with cancer survivors. “Healing the relationship with food makes everything else more sustainable,” she explained. “We focus on listening to the body and adding nourishing foods instead of restricting. That supports both the body and the mind.”

Supported Every Step of the Way

For anyone considering Survivor Fitness, Chelsea has simple advice. “Jump in. Don’t let fear hold you back. We meet you where you are, with no judgment and lots of encouragement.”

That spirit of care is what she loves most about the program. “Survivor Fitness does not give survivors mediocre resources,” she said. “The dietitians, trainers, and counselors are highly qualified and provide truly personalized care. That’s what every survivor deserves.”

With partners like Chelsea, Survivor Fitness continues to offer not just guidance but hope, confidence, and a path forward that feels supportive every step of the way.

You can connect with Chelsea on Instagram or follow her blog for more tips, insights, and best practices.