Category: Spotlights

Cancer—the word itself evokes a sense of fear and uncertainty. The journey of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can be long and arduous, filled with physical and emotional challenges. But amidst the hardship, stories of resilience emerge—stories like Pamela Wilson’s. 

Diagnosed with various forms of cancer over a 12-year period, Pamela battled through countless treatments, surgeries, and emotional hurdles. However, her journey is also one of hope and the transformative power of supportive communities.

A Decade of Facing Cancer Head-On

Pamela’s journey began in 2011 when she received a blood cancer diagnosis. While managing her condition with medication and regular monitoring, she continued working as a teacher and leading a relatively normal life. However, a series of unexpected events established a recurring theme over the next few years. 

First, in 2016, a seizure led to the discovery of a benign tumor, requiring surgery but thankfully not impacting her long-term health. In 2022, a routine blood test revealed elevated white blood cell levels. Pamela was referred to Sarah Cannon Center for Blood Cancers in Nashville and was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia. Pamela was considered at high risk for relapse because her blast cell count percentage was so high, so she moved to Nashville to receive daily injections and monitoring for several months. After more than three months of chemotherapy treatment, Pamela’s blast cell count was finally low enough to perform a bone marrow transplant. After her transplant, Pamela was required to stay in Nashville for an additional 100 days. 

“Needless to say, all the chemicals over a 16-month period were really hard on the body,” Pamela said. “When we returned home, my fatigue and exhaustion were beginning to improve, but my entire body ached, and my muscles were greatly atrophied.”

About a month later, Pamela noticed a lump in her right abdomen, which was diagnosed as a strangulated hernia. Of course, this could have been another bump on the road, but it became a life-changing experience for Pamela when her case was assigned to Dr. Aaron Margulies.

At her final post-op appointment with Dr. Margulies, Pamela mentioned that she wanted to start exercising again and hoped to improve her overall well-being. He graciously handed her a Survivor Fitness brochure. 

“Dr. Margulies is one of the kindest doctors I’ve ever met and sensitive to the emotional and physical needs of his patients,” Pamela shared. “Without his fortuitous recommendation, I would never have known about Survivor Fitness.”

Finding Support and Sisterhood at Survivor Fitness

Connecting with Survivor Fitness marked a turning point for Pamela. Paired with trainer Kathleen Bullock, Pamela embarked on a personalized fitness journey. Kathleen was able to ascertain Pamela’s base fitness level and help train her through exercises that Pamela could also practice at home in between sessions. 

“Kathleen was very helpful in understanding my needs, and guiding my efforts,” Pamela said. “She was very understanding of my limitations, yet had the ability to provide motivation and challenges to promote continuous improvement. The friendship and sister in Christ that I found with her was a bonus!”

A Life Renewed: Strength, Gratitude, and Hope

After completing the Survivor Fitness program, Pamela felt confident enough to continue her workouts independently at home. Today, she enjoys brisk walks of over two miles several times each week and incorporates resistance exercises into her routine. Most importantly, she feels like herself again. “It’s been two years since my recovery journey began, and I feel normal again,” Pamela beams.

Pamela’s story is a powerful reminder that even amidst seemingly insurmountable challenges, the human spirit can persevere. Her unwavering faith, the support of her medical team, and the guidance of Survivor Fitness all played crucial roles in her journey to regaining strength and well-being.

“At my recent yearly wellness exam with my PCP, I mentioned to her that I felt very blessed, that I am a walking miracle, saved by miraculous modern medicine, medical experts, and above all else, God’s grace,” Pamela reflects. “I am at a loss for words sometimes, at how much OTHERS are willing to do and have done to help me through this journey.”

Get Connected to the Survivor Fitness Community

Pamela’s story serves as a beacon of hope for other cancer survivors. It’s a testament to the human spirit’s ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. We are incredibly grateful to Pamela for sharing her inspiring story and being part of our community. 

If you are a cancer survivor seeking hope and support after treatment or know someone who is, we invite you to learn more about our programs and how we can help you reclaim your strength. Reach out with questions or apply today to take the first step towards a healthier and happier future.

The fight against cancer can feel like a whirlwind of activity punctuated by moments of stillness and fear. The physical, mental, and emotional toll can linger long after treatment ends, making the journey to recovery a complex one. 

Ashley Blum, a participant in the Survivor Fitness program, has navigated these obstacles and discovered newfound strength and resilience even after treatment.

A Jarring Diagnosis and Unexpected Hurdles

As a young mother, Ashley’s world shifted on February 2, 2018. What she initially believed to be a clogged milk duct turned out to be a life-altering discovery. Following an initial consultation with her midwife, a series of tests—ultrasounds, and mammograms—unfolded over the next week. Finally, on February 15, while enjoying lunch with a friend, Ashley received the earth-shattering news: a diagnosis of primary angiosarcoma, an uncommon and aggressive form of cancer in her left breast.

“While awareness and research abound for breast cancer,” Ashley shares, “discovering the rarity of my condition intensified my fear exponentially.”

Despite the unexpected nature of the diagnosis, Ashley opted for a single mastectomy with an aesthetic flat closure. Supported by a loving network, she embarked on her healing journey. Scans became a regular part of her routine, and running became a powerful tool in her recovery, culminating in a half marathon four weeks after surgery. However, eight months later, the physical imbalance caused by the flat closure mastectomy led to significant back pain, necessitating a second mastectomy.

Running had become a vital part of Ashley’s well-being, a source of both physical and mental strength. In July 2022, another setback arose when she fractured the talus bone in her ankle, requiring two surgeries.

Coping with “Scanxiety” and Finding a New Community

Losing the ability to run was a significant blow. The constant anxiety surrounding the possibility of the angiosarcoma returning, a fear often referred to as “scanxiety,” weighed heavily on Ashley.

“Emotionally, I found myself in turmoil,” she explains. “Coping with ‘scanxiety’ presented a formidable challenge.”

Faced with an extended recovery period and the inability to run, Ashley’s oncologist suggested exploring the Survivor Fitness program. After reaching out, she was quickly paired with A|Train Fitness in Nashville and began the program.

With a focus on finding new ways to move her body due to her injury, Ashley’s participation in Survivor Fitness evolved into a source of hope, strength, and renewal.

“Learning new ways to move has changed my life,” she says. “I’ve been able to regain my wellness more than I ever imagined.”

Beyond the physical benefits of learning new exercise techniques and routines, Ashley discovered a profound level of emotional support within the Survivor Fitness community.

“Through this program,” Ashley shares, “I forged meaningful connections, honed my strength training skills, and received invaluable coaching from remarkable individuals.”

Today, Ashley remains actively involved in the program, regularly participating in the Saturday in-person workout classes with other Survivor Fitness alums.

Finding Hope and Support Beyond Treatment

For cancer survivors navigating a similar path, Ashley offers a message of encouragement: “There are support networks available to assist individuals facing similar challenges. Connecting with someone who has firsthand experience can be profoundly reassuring and comforting.”

The Survivor Fitness community stands ready to offer the support, guidance, and encouragement you need to thrive. 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.

The fight against cancer can be all-encompassing, demanding every ounce of a patient’s strength. But the journey doesn’t end with the completion of treatment. Many cancer survivors face a new challenge: rebuilding their lives and bodies amidst the ongoing responsibilities of family and work. Isolation is a common thread amongst survivors who encounter a void where the support system during treatment once existed.

For Chuck Klein, a husband, father of four, and Principal/Founder of Impact Stewardship, this reality became all too familiar. In January 2023, Chuck received a life-altering diagnosis: stage 4 primary mediastinal large B cell lymphoma.

The subsequent six months brought a grueling battle with the disease. Chuck underwent six rounds of powerful chemotherapy, leaving him incredibly weak and fatigued. Prior to his diagnosis, Chuck had always been active, and the drastic decline in his physical state was a major hurdle. His legs and joints were weakened further by the steroids prescribed during treatment. 

“By the end of round six, it was hard to walk up one or two steps,” Chuck recalled.

Taking the First Steps Toward Progress

Despite the challenges, Chuck refused to surrender to his limitations. Like many survivors, the responsibilities of life simply wouldn’t wait. He needed to get back on track, not only for himself but for his family and his work. 

“I travel for work and am constantly on the go,” Chuck explained. “My desire was to get my strength back as soon as possible to get back to work.” 

During this time, his wife learned about the Survivor Fitness program, a beacon of hope in a period of uncertainty. Chuck started in July, shortly after completing his last round of treatment.

Starting a new exercise program after such a grueling ordeal wasn’t easy. The initial steps were the most difficult. However, Chuck quickly discovered the program’s personalized approach. He appreciated the trainers’ ability to guide and support him at a pace his body could tolerate. 

“I knew I had a long way to come back, but it was a process,” says Chuck. “Every two weeks, I could tell I was reaching a new benchmark as I got stronger and further away from my last round of chemo.” 

After the 12-week program, Chuck was equipped with the information and inspiration needed to get back on his feet and gradually regain strength, leading to a much speedier recovery than anticipated.

Finding a Lifeline and a Friend

Like many participants, Chuck discovered the program provided more than just physical training; it offered camaraderie and emotional support. 

“On my own, I couldn’t have done this,” Chuck admitted frankly. 

A significant part of Chuck’s success goes to his trainer, Joe. Their connection was evident from the first session. Joe’s ability to intuitively understand Chuck’s needs, knowing when to push him and when to offer support, proved instrumental in getting him back on his feet. 

“Joe was a lifeline,” Chuck shared. “Being sick can be isolating, but the personal and social contact was an added bonus because he was knowledgeable but personal.”

He emphasizes how Joe understood his limitations and pushed him just the right amount to help Chuck build muscle strength and stamina. 

Hope and Community: A Message for Other Survivors

Chuck’s journey with Survivor Fitness transformed his life. He not only regained his physical strength but also rediscovered the power of hope and community.  Chuck offers a heartfelt message for other survivors facing a similar path: 

“Don’t let being sick isolate you and feel complacent. There are people out there who want to help.” 

If you’re a cancer survivor looking to reclaim your strength and well-being, Survivor Fitness might be the perfect first step. Learn more about our program or submit an application today! 

The fear and loneliness that grip you after a cancer diagnosis are realities only those who’ve walked the path can genuinely understand. The constant worry is a heavy weight to carry. The isolation of treatment, especially when miles separate you from loved ones, adds another layer of pain. Even after treatment, the journey can feel daunting. That’s why we believe that “battling cancer is lonely and hard, but recovery shouldn’t be.” 

Mitzi Mannon, a vibrant participant in our program, embodies this message. Mitzi’s journey began in July 2021 with a diagnosis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. She immediately started an aggressive treatment plan, which included chemotherapy and CAR T-cell therapy. While the physical challenges were formidable, the mental and emotional stress took the heaviest toll. She endured months of treatment in Houston, far away from her family. 

“During treatment, you’re fighting to survive. It’s a mental game of staying positive and praying. My focus was my family and children,” Mitzi said. 

Even after treatment, the emotional rollercoaster continued. “It’s a daily choice to stay positive. You worry constantly. It’s been a journey.”

From Isolation to Inspiration

Through her son’s tennis team, Mitzi discovered Survivor Fitness. The prospect of regaining her physical health and finding others who understood her struggle fueled her decision to apply.

Over 12 weeks, Mitzi began to experience transformation inside and out. She shed the weight gained during treatment, rediscovered her energy, and, most importantly, found a community of support. 

“Survivor Fitness changed my life. It gave me the drive to get back in the gym, the friendships and support that fueled my will to keep surviving.”

These friendships, she emphasizes, are more than just gym buddies. “It’s a family. Everyone is so positive and helpful, and the trainers truly understand what we’ve been through.”

Finding Strength in the Survivor Fitness Family

In March 2023, Mitzi faced a recurrence of her cancer. Yet the Survivor Fitness community rallied around her, offering unwavering support and encouragement throughout the past year. 

Mitzi’s story is a testament to the transformative power of support and shared experience. It’s a beacon of hope, reminding us that we are not alone, even in the darkest times. To those battling similar struggles, Mitzi extends a hand of encouragement.

 “Reach out to Survivor Fitness. It’s a family of others that will support you, understand what you’ve been through, and help you reach new goals.” 

At Survivor Fitness, we are forever grateful for Mitzi’s resilience and unwavering spirit. She is an inspiration to all who navigate the challenging but empowering journey of healing.

Interested in Becoming a Survivor Fitness Participant?

If you or someone you know is a cancer survivor looking to regain health and wellness after cancer, we’re here for you! Connect with us today to learn more about our program and our in-person or virtual training options.

One of the challenges of cancer is the wake of uncertainty it creates, even after treatment. The desire to reclaim normalcy or simply “live again” can often clash with fears such as, “Will I ever feel the same again?” or  “Will the cancer return?” Navigating this uncertain terrain requires immense courage, strength, and resilience—qualities embodied by Survivor Fitness participant Brenda Snow.

Facing the Unknown with Courage

Brenda’s active life came to a halt after her diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma and DCIS breast cancer. The HER2-positive status of her cancer demanded a comprehensive treatment plan that encompassed surgery, chemo, radiation, and a year of Herceptin. While she handled the medical aspects with determination, the lingering unknowns became one of the most difficult challenges she faced.

“I tolerated my treatment very well, but the worry of what comes next weighs on me still,” Brenda shared. 

Despite the fear, Brenda stepped boldly into her post-treatment journey, determined to reclaim her active life. She yearned to return to the tennis court and embrace the outdoors once again.

“I have always exercised and been very active,” she shared. “After treatment, I was looking for a way to return to my former self.”

Taking Steps Toward Recovery

That’s when Brenda discovered Survivor Fitness online and took yet another brave step. She applied and quickly connected with Ashley Walls, who introduced her to a personal trainer and nutrition specialist in her area. Like many participants, she deeply appreciated the scholarship assistance that made her next step possible.

“I am very grateful to them for the opportunity to work with a personal trainer,” Brenda said. “I would not have been able to do that without their financial help.”

After being paired with Nathaniel Barnett at D1 in Hardin Valley, Brenda embarked on a 12-week fitness training program tailored to overcome the unique challenges of breast cancer treatment and regain physical strength. Reflecting on her experience with Nathaniel, Brenda expressed gratitude, noting how he played a pivotal role in her recovery.

“He was very encouraging and helped me regain a lot of muscle back.”

Today, Brenda celebrates the ongoing steps in her journey, both literal and metaphorical. Engaging in regular walks, she has successfully regained her physical fitness. Her experience has instilled in her a deep appreciation for everyday joys and simple moments, small pleasures that can be all too easily taken for granted. 

For those facing similar battles, Brenda offers a message of hope and empowerment: “Go for this program if you get the opportunity. It’s been an amazing journey.”

Brenda’s journey embodies the spirit of Survivor Fitness: strength forged from adversity and hope blossoming amid uncertainty. Her story reminds us that even in the face of the unknown, taking small steps can lead to remarkable leaps—physically, emotionally, and beyond.

See How You Can Get Involved

If you are a cancer survivor looking to regain your strength after treatment, we invite you to learn more about our program or submit an application today.