Partner Spotlight – Adam Valentine

One of the biggest hurdles cancer survivors face when it comes to regaining their fitness is simply knowing where to begin. Entering the gym environment after treatment can be intimidating, and survivors can feel uncertainty and anxiety about what their bodies can do. That’s one of the reasons Survivor Fitness intentionally partners with personal training facilities that are prepared to meet these challenges and create a welcoming, supportive space for program participants.

TRI-FIT personal training in Murfreesboro, TN, exemplifies this approach perfectly. Owned by Adam Valentine, TRI-FIT offers a boutique fitness experience that fosters a comfortable, relaxed, and fun atmosphere. TRI-FIT caters to a diverse clientele, ranging from 10 to 82 years old, and their focus on personalized attention aligns beautifully with the Survivor Fitness mission.

Seeing Cancer’s Impact Up Close

Adam, a personal trainer for nearly two decades, has always been passionate about helping people reach their fitness goals. When he decided to open his own gym in Murfreesboro, his life took an unexpected turn—his mom was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. Witnessing the physical, mental, and emotional toll that cancer took on her was a life-changing experience for Adam.

“I think most cancer survivors are in this fight-or-flight mentality for so long during treatment,” Adam reflects. “Once you come down from that, the reality of what you experienced really hits you—how precious life is and how fast it almost left.”

After she finished treatment, Adam’s mom joined the Survivor Fitness program at Chadwick’s Fitness in Cool Springs. As a personal trainer himself, Adam was initially intrigued but also a little concerned.

“After going through cancer treatment, trying to put the pieces back together can be overwhelming,” Adam explains. “It’s hard for survivors to figure out what they can or cannot do. As a personal trainer, I wanted to make sure my mom was taking the right approach to her recovery.”

However, seeing the program’s transformative impact on his mom left a lasting impression. Witnessing her journey sparked Adam’s desire to join the Survivor Fitness community.

Creating a Welcoming and Encouraging Environment

While TRI-FIT became a Survivor Fitness partner just a few months ago, Adam and his team have already worked with seven participants in Murfreesboro. Adam is often the first point of contact for participants—helping them coordinate training times and introducing them to their wellness coach. His personal experience allows him to connect with participants on a deeper level, dispelling any anxieties and misconceptions they might have about personal training.

“When you see Survivor Fitness participants come in for their initial consultation, you can see the transformation from apprehension to excitement,” Adam says.

His goal is for TRI-FIT to be an extension of the Survivor Fitness program, offering a safe space to begin exercising again and developing a personalized roadmap to achieve their fitness goals.

“We’re not primarily trying to get results,” Adam clarifies. “We’re trying to establish a relationship and consistent pattern that shows them how to have a good time exercising.”

One aspect of the Survivor Fitness program that particularly excites Adam is the inclusion of mental health support. He understands firsthand the challenges his mom faced navigating the complexities of post-cancer life.

“It’s hard to explain what it’s like to go through life once you survive cancer,” Adam says. “You feel like you’ve been through a traumatic experience, and you’re trying to put the pieces back together again.”

A Full-Circle Moment

For Adam, the entire journey—opening his gym, supporting his mom through her cancer diagnosis and treatment, witnessing her transformation through Survivor Fitness, and now becoming a partner—feels like a full-circle moment.

“To be able to walk alongside my mom during her treatment and then now to be in a place where we can partner with Survivor Fitness has been so cool,” Adam concludes.

If you’re a personal trainer or fitness center interested in supporting cancer survivors after treatment, connect with our team to learn how you can join the Survivor Fitness network.

If you’re a cancer survivor looking to get back on your feet after treatment, we’d love for you to check out our program or submit an application today!

Participant Spotlight: Pamela Wilson

Pamela wilson working out on an exercise ball.

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.

Partner Spotlight – Whitney Biggs

Fear, anxiety, grief, and depression are emotions we all encounter. But for a cancer survivor, these feelings are often amplified by the trauma of diagnosis, treatment, and the uncertainty of life moving forward. These experiences—and the path to navigate them—are ones that Whitney Biggs knows well.

As a licensed mental health counselor, Whitney has walked alongside hundreds of patients. With expertise and compassion, she empowers them to manage overwhelming emotions, draw strength from within, and build a fulfilling life aligned with their values. But her connection to these challenges goes beyond the professional realm. Whitney is also a cancer survivor, and her personal journey offers a unique perspective that fuels her dedication to helping others.

As Survivor Fitness expands its services to include mental health counseling, we’re thrilled to welcome Whitney Biggs as one of our newest board members. Her dual expertise as a therapist and cancer survivor will be invaluable as we guide survivors on the path back to a stronger, healthier life.

A Passion for Empowering Survivors

​​Whitney’s connection to Survivor Fitness began through a fellow survivor and former Survivor Fitness board member, Christie Ekern. Their shared experiences helped them form a bond, and Christie’s positive experience with the programs resonated deeply with Whitney. She was immediately drawn to the organization’s holistic approach, offering support, guidance, and expertise to participants on their journey back to themselves.

“Survivor Fitness is an organization that meets a need no one was really focused on,” Whitney explains. “It’s about finding your way back to vitality, health, and peace after a cancer experience.”

Whitney was deeply moved by our program’s philosophy, the dedication of our team, and the kindness of all the participants, trainers, and partners. It resonated deeply with her own desire to support fellow survivors on their journeys to recovery.

Whitney’s From Fear to Hope 

As a cancer survivor, Whitney understands the emotional toll a diagnosis and treatment can take.

“What many don’t realize,” she says, “is that after the bell has been rung and treatment is completed, everything does not go back to normal. I lived with a fear that could be quite haunting and even, at times, debilitating.”  

Following treatment, Whitney found solace in yoga, movement, meditation, and self-expression. Through this journey, she discovered the power of a post-treatment plan that reconnects body and mind. 

“The best part of having an intentional practice is feeling the energy coursing through your body again, the empowerment and peace it brings. These things worked to center me and gave me an outlet for the fear.” 

Her experience fuels her belief in Survivor Fitness. 

“Survivor Fitness offers a way out of the fear. A way forward in hope.”

A Guiding Light for Other Survivors

At Survivor Fitness, we’re deeply grateful for Whitney’s presence on our board. Her unique perspective as a therapist and survivor will impact countless lives as we integrate mental health counseling as a new program. 

Reflecting on her own journey, Whitney offers this heartfelt encouragement to other survivors.

“Embrace this opportunity to be supported and guided! You are just beginning this part of your life with 20/20 vision of the things that are most important to you.”

We’re truly honored by Whitney’s willingness to share her wisdom and experience with Survivor Fitness. Through her role on the board, she embodies the spirit of paying it forward, offering hope and guidance to others on their path to recovery.

If you’re a cancer survivor looking to take the next step on your journey or know someone who is, we invite you to learn more about our program and the recent addition of mental health counseling.

Together, we can help you reclaim your strength and find your way back to a life of vitality and purpose.

Participant Spotlight: Ashley Blum

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.

Board Member Spotlight: Chris Guay

Professional portrait of Chris Guay.

Survivor Fitness thrives because of the incredible people who believe in our mission. We’re fortunate to have a board of directors that is comprised of passionate leaders and talented individuals who dedicate their skills and experience to positively impacting the lives of cancer survivors. Chris Guay is a shining example of this dedication.

A native of Brentwood, Tennessee, Chris founded Vitality Living, a leading provider of active independent and assisted living communities. Since its launch in 2016, Vitality Living has flourished under Chris’s leadership, becoming a top senior living company nationwide. His passion for people and commitment to quality service have allowed the organization to serve over 2,000 residents across the country.

Chris’s energy, strategic thinking, and innovative approach are evident in his work at Vitality Living. But it’s his inherent desire to help others that truly inspires him. This desire is what led him to join the Survivor Fitness Board.

Finding a Connection with Survivor Fitness

Chris connected with Survivor Fitness founder Aaron Grunke during the COVID-19 pandemic. When Chris collaborated with Aaron to secure COVID tests for Vitality Living employees and residents, he learned about Aaron’s story and the inspiration behind Survivor Fitness. Chris felt an immediate call to action, compelled to support the organization and its mission.

As Chris became more involved, he discovered a close friend had been one of the program’s first participants following her breast cancer battle. This personal connection further solidified his decision. Cancer touches us all, and Survivor Fitness was making a tangible difference.

“I am new to the organization,” Chris says, “but was drawn to it by Aaron and other survivors’ stories of how going through the Survivor Fitness Program helped them gain not only physical strength but confidence after battling cancer.”

A Personal Connection and a Shared Mission

Personal health and fitness are cornerstones of Chris’s life. Like many, he has witnessed the impact of cancer firsthand.

“I have watched too many loved ones fight this disease,” Chris reflects, “and have seen the negative impacts it has during and after treatments. Gaining the confidence that they are strong and their bodies can be healthy again is one of the most valuable aspects of cancer survivorship.”

Chris firmly believes that supporting an organization aligned with his passion for wellness and fighting cancer is a calling. “I am extremely honored and excited to help more survivors find and experience our program,” he adds.

Since joining the board, Chris has been consistently inspired by the stories of program participants.  Hearing firsthand how Survivor Fitness empowers survivors and transforms their outlook on life fuels his dedication.

For those considering starting the Survivor Fitness program, Chris offers these encouraging words: “Don’t let cancer define you and make you feel weak. Battling the disease takes a mental and physical toll, but our program can help you get your strength back and more.”  These powerful words encapsulate Chris’s unwavering support for our mission.

Survivor Fitness is incredibly grateful to have Chris as a board member. His extensive experience and expertise will be invaluable as we strive to grow and reach more cancer survivors.  But most importantly, Chris’s passion for our mission and his calling to be part of our organization is a powerful asset that will make a difference in the lives of our participants.

To learn more about how we help cancer survivors reclaim their mental health, read more about our program or submit an application today! 

Participant Spotlight: Chuck Klein

Chuck Klein standing in the woods

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! 

Partner Spotlight: Randianne Sears

professional portait of randianne sears on red background

Just like every cancer diagnosis requires a specific treatment plan, recovery also needs a personalized approach. At Survivor Fitness, we understand that each survivor needs a unique path back to health and well-being. That’s why we’re proud to partner with incredible trainers like Randianne Sears, who bring their expertise and a genuine passion for empowering cancer survivors to their work with us.

Randianne, the owner of Evolve Movement Therapy in Spring Hill, Tennessee, has dedicated her career to helping individuals achieve optimal health through fitness and wellness. With over 15 years of experience in group and personal training, she possesses a diverse knowledge of training methods and styles. This depth of experience allows her to create individualized programs that cater specifically to the needs of each Survivor Fitness participant.

Randianne’s connection to Survivor Fitness is a testament to her genuine desire to help others. As she explained, “I’ve always felt like I’ve been called to share what I know.  Cancer is a debilitating disease and leaves a lot of feelings of hopelessness. I feel like I can provide hope to people.” 

Personalization is Key

One of the core principles of Randianne’s approach is personalization. Taking the time to understand each participant’s medical history, current limitations, and long-term goals allows Randianne to craft personalized plans that promote optimal recovery.

“Each cancer survivor has a different story, and that means different recoveries,” she said.  “You can’t duplicate the same training for someone.”

Randianne also champions the importance of patience during the recovery process. She encourages cancer survivors to remember that transformation doesn’t happen overnight and that listening to their bodies is essential to undertaking an effective training regimen. 

Inspiring Recovery: From Exhaustion to Empowerment

Randianne isn’t just focused on physical recovery; she understands the emotional toll cancer can take. Her goal is to equip survivors with the strength and stamina they need to return to their everyday lives.  

“I want them to be able to get back to functional life. Going back to work, being a mom, partner, or whatever you were before, and being able to have the capacity to do that.”

For Randianne, witnessing a participant’s empowerment is her greatest reward. 

My favorite moment is getting to know the clients and seeing the moment when the tide turns for them,” she shared. “They’ve spent the past year completely exhausted from their treatments, and seeing them come full circle is the best.”

A Passionate Advocate

After just a few months of working with Survivor Fitness participants, Randianne has become a vocal champion for the program. Her passion also extends beyond her personal involvement, as she encourages other trainers to consider joining the program.

“It’s a very well-developed program, and I am very humbled to be a part of taking care of someone who has been a part of a long journey like cancer. There are a lot of trainers who should reach out to see if they can help and be a part of the program and there are a lot of candidates who need to apply and be part of Survivor Fitness.” 

Join the Survivor Fitness Community 

Randianne Sears embodies the essence of a Survivor Fitness partner. Her personalized approach, coupled with her unwavering support and dedication, empowers survivors on their path to recovery. Through her work, she inspires participants and fellow trainers, leaving a lasting impact on the Survivor Fitness community.

If you’re a personal trainer or fitness center interested in supporting cancer survivors after treatment, connect with our team to learn how you can join the Survivor Fitness network.

If you’re a cancer survivor looking to get back on your feet after treatment, we’d love for you to check out our program or submit an application today! 

Participant Spotlight: Mitzi Mannon

Mitzi Mannon and her family smiling

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.

Board Member Spotlight: Dr. Rachel Mitchell

Rachel Mitchell smiling outside at the park

Community is like a super glue that holds everything together in a cancer survivor’s journey. It’s how people with different passions and perspectives come together to build each other up. That’s why it’s one of our core values at Survivor Fitness Foundation. We’ve seen countless survivors find their power and purpose within our community, and it’s truly inspiring.

The essence of this community spirit is mirrored in our Board of Directors. We’re privileged to work alongside a mosaic of community leaders, nonprofit professionals, fitness specialists, business visionaries, and medical experts. Their collective voices and insights are instrumental in sculpting the Survivor Fitness Foundation into a beacon of hope and healing for cancer survivors across Tennessee.

Today, we’re honored to introduce Dr. Rachel Mitchell, one of the inspiring board members guiding us on this mission.

As a doctor at Tennessee Oncology, Dr. Mitchell serves patients in the Nashville and Shelbyville clinics. From her earliest memories, her heart was captivated by the concept of healthcare. That led her to pursue a medical degree from Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science, where she specialized in oncology—a discipline where she could harness innovation and empathy to profoundly impact her patients’ lives.

After practicing in Tennessee for a couple of years, Dr. Mitchell was introduced to Survivor Fitness by a discerning friend who noticed an alignment between Dr. Mitchell’s expertise and the Survivor Fitness mission. She instantly recognized the synergy and felt a magnetic pull towards our cause.

“Physical activity has always played a large role in my life, both for physical and mental benefits. As a medical oncologist, you see the impact that both diagnosis and treatment can have on patients. Being able to approach a patient’s recovery process through a whole-person approach is so important,” she shared.

Dr. Mitchell walks alongside hundreds of patients during diagnosis and treatment, but she doesn’t always get to follow their recovery journey as closely. Getting the opportunity to see the changes that Survivor Fitness participants experience has been one of the most meaningful experiences for her since joining the board. Witnessing participants reclaiming their lives after treatment fuels her commitment to the cause.

“Hearing patients’ stories after they participate in the program has been very rewarding,” she said. “The program is truly life-changing. It EMPOWERS the patient to be able to gain control of their lives again after overcoming a cancer diagnosis.”

As an oncologist, she recognizes the impact a cancer diagnosis and treatment have on a patient physically, mentally, and emotionally. 

Dr. Mitchell is a testament to the power of community and compassion in cancer recovery. Her journey alongside patients, both in the clinic and as a board member, shines a bright light on the path to hope and healing. We are incredibly grateful for her passion, her expertise, and her relentless commitment to helping cancer survivors reclaim their lives and redefine what it means to thrive.

Partner Spotlight: Sarah Denger

Sarah Denger on a Yoga Mat stretching in second position

Survivor Fitness partners with remarkable individuals who share our commitment to empowering cancer survivors on their post-treatment journey. Many of our partners have watched a family member or close friend navigate treatment and recovery. One such inspiring individual is Sarah Denger, whose personal journey with cancer has informed her role as a passionate fitness instructor and a valued partner at Survivor Fitness.

From Patient to Fitness Instructor: Sarah’s Personal Journey with Cancer

Before her cancer diagnosis, fitness was merely a leisure pursuit for Sarah. In her mid-twenties, seemingly at the peak of her physical prime, cancer upended her life. Three years of grueling chemotherapy, including a stem cell transplant, stripped her of her strength and vitality. It was during this arduous battle that Sarah grappled with her body’s limitations.

“I felt so helpless when I couldn’t keep up with my parents on a neighborhood walk,” she said. “I was 25, they were in their late 50s, and yet I was the one lagging behind.”

Through this experience, Sarah discovered her passion for fitness and found her calling as a fitness instructor. Reconnecting with her body after the disassociation caused by cancer treatment, she now dedicates herself to helping others achieve the same transformative results.

“It didn’t take me long to realize that if I really wanted my energy, stamina, strength, body, and even life back…I had to work and earn it,” she shared. ”Fitness gave me that channel, and I wanted to work with those who had walked a similar path.”

Driven by this newfound purpose, Sarah actively sought avenues to support young cancer survivors. At Vanderbilt, she joined the board for their Young Adult Cancer Clinic. There, her paths crossed with Aaron and Meg Grunke, the co-founders of Survivor Fitness. Captivated by Sarah’s story and unwavering spirit, they knew she belonged on their dedicated team.

Since December 2023, Sarah has been integral to Survivor Fitness, guiding individual training sessions and leading virtual group exercises for participants and alums. Witnessing their progress brings her immense joy and a renewed sense of purpose.

“I am already inspired by my clients,” Sarah said. “One participant is doing more impact work than when we first started. Another is getting way more range of motion in her right arm, which had been her more limited side.  There is so much to say, and I could go on and on about their accomplishments.”

Her favorite aspect of the program is the profound connection she feels with participants as they share the challenges of their fitness journey. It reminds her of her own journey as she helps instill confidence that they can reach their fitness goals.

Offering Empathy Through Experience: Navigating Life After Cancer

Sarah’s personal insights and empathy, rooted in her own experience with cancer and recovery, create a mutually beneficial relationship with the participants. Knowing firsthand the mental and emotional hurdles, she empowers participants to focus on progress, not limitations.

“Attitude is everything,” she said. “Cancer takes a toll on the body, and discouragement can be crippling. But cancer survivors are warriors, and I remind them to celebrate what they can do instead of dwelling on what they can’t.”

Working closely with each participant, Sarah encourages them to take the next step on their recovery journey. By reminding them to be patient and adapt their routines to their current needs, she strives to make the workout experience enjoyable.

“I want to make it fun and encouraging because I know how strong these individuals already are. I see myself in clients that feel shy about the experience because that’s how I was when I first started going to the gym.”

Living the Dream: Empowering Others Through Survivor Fitness

As a cancer survivor and fitness trainer, Sarah’s passion, encouragement, and expertise enrich every session at Survivor Fitness. In her own words, Survivor Fitness is a “dream come true organization” that seamlessly blends her two life passions: cancer patient advocacy and fitness.

We’re incredibly grateful for Sarah and the life-changing experience she offers Survivor Fitness participants. If you’re a personal trainer or fitness center interested in supporting individuals after treatment, connect with our team to learn how you can join the Survivor Fitness network. If you’re looking for physical support after cancer treatment, we’d love for you to check out our program or submit an application!