Cancer treatments can be life-saving, but they also leave survivors facing a harsh new reality—one where their bodies and minds feel drastically different from before. The physical and mental toll can be overwhelming, leaving many searching for a way to rebuild strength, confidence, and a sense of normalcy. For Survivor Fitness participants like John Adamick, the journey to recovery is just as critical as the treatment itself.
A Hard-Fought Battle Against Cancer
On December 19, 2022, John received a devastating diagnosis: a rare form of non-Hodgkin T-cell lymphoma. Determined to fight, he underwent three rounds of chemotherapy, but each attempt failed to stop the disease. With limited options remaining, his oncologist at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center began exploring additional measures and clinical trials. Then, against the odds, John received the best news possible:
“Finally, and miraculously, after a fourth and final chemo treatment at Vanderbilt, my illness was successfully treated,” John explained.
Because the treatment worked, John became a candidate for a donor stem cell transplant, a procedure that would give him the best chance at long-term survival. On February 15, 2024, he underwent a transplant at Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center. The months that followed were grueling—110 days of post-transplant maintenance and daily infusions, all while living in a temporary apartment away from home.
The treatment had worked, but John was left feeling like a shell of himself. Malnutrition and muscle depletion had taken a severe toll. He struggled with food aversions, difficulty swallowing, and painful sores in his mouth from thrush, making eating an exhausting challenge.
“Before treatment, I was a big man of 6’4″ and weighed 280 pounds. During the time frame from my first cancer diagnosis, I lost over 100 lbs from chemo sickness,” John shared. “Many would say I was a walking skeleton.”
Regaining his strength felt like an uphill battle. That’s when John found Survivor Fitness.
Mobility, Endurance, Confidence
After his 110-day stay, John’s oncology team highly recommended he reach out to Survivor Fitness for post-rehabilitation healing and strength.
Our team was able to help John get started training at Performance Training Inc. in his hometown of Knoxville, TN. He was paired with Ben Doyle, a dedicated trainer who constructed a regimen of exercises for healthy muscle mass, mobility, strength, and (last but not least) increased confidence. Step by step, John and Ben worked to rebuild his strength, enhance his endurance, and overcome the physical challenges from his treatment.
“Without Survivor Fitness & PTI, I seriously doubt I would be on track to living a normal life,” John celebrated. “Before Survivor Fitness, I had limited mobility. From a walker to relying on a cane and now walking solely on two feet. “
Looking back on his experience, John described working with Survivor Fitness as “the best thing that ever happened to me.”
“FOR THE HEALTH OF IT!”
For John, this journey was about more than just physical recovery—it was about mindset. Having been an athlete in his younger years, he understood that accomplishing any goal requires dedication, perseverance, and mental resilience.
One motto captured his approach to Survivor Fitness: “FOR THE HEALTH OF IT!” This phrase represents his commitment to regaining his strength and his willingness to fight for a full, healthy life.
After completing the 12-week program, John decided to continue working out with Ben on his own at PTI Knoxville. Each session brought new progress, more confidence, and a renewed sense of purpose.
When asked what advice he would give to someone else facing a similar journey, John responded simply but powerfully: “There is a generous and caring group of people who care. Just look at me—I am a testament to that.”
We’re incredibly proud of John’s resilience and determination. His story truly showcases the power of strength, support, and community.
If you or someone you know is a cancer survivor looking to regain strength and confidence after treatment, Survivor Fitness is here to help. Learn more about our programs or apply today.
