As Survivor Fitness continues to grow, one of the most exciting benefits is the ability to expand our network of partners beyond the Tennessee cities we’ve served for years. We’re thrilled to welcome Ellen Smartt, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) and founder of At the Table Nutrition Consulting, as one of our newest additions!
Based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Ellen brings a unique blend of clinical, science-based, and holistic training to the table. Her well-rounded approach perfectly complements Survivor Fitness’s mission to empower cancer survivors to reclaim their health and thrive after treatment.
Finding a Connection and Making a Difference
Ellen’s journey to Survivor Fitness began at a food and nutrition conference where she connected with a fellow RDN who introduced her to our organization. The moment she learned about the mission, Ellen knew it was an opportunity to blend her professional expertise with her personal desire to empower others through the healing power of healthy nutrition.
After a few months, Ellen has already discovered the profound impact this experience can have. As she shared, “Working with Survivor Fitness participants has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my professional career as a registered dietitian.”
What truly resonates with Ellen is the opportunity to connect with participants on a deeper level. Her approach prioritizes getting to know an individual’s stories and their challenges before diving into the specifics of nutrition. These initial calls are filled with kindness and care, setting the stage for a collaborative journey towards achieving their goals.
“Each meeting, I am blown away by the level of attention and care to the nutrition goals and ideas that we create,” Ellen remarked. “I truly enjoy every single session and look forward to the next conversation!”
The Power of Nutrition for Healing
One of the aspects that inspires Ellen most is the remarkable ability of our bodies to adapt and heal based on the food choices we make.
“What inspires me is the true power of nutrition for healing,” Ellen explained. “We feed our bodies tens of thousands of times over a lifetime. There is so much good we can do for our bodies with educated food choices.”
Ellen considers it a privilege to guide Survivor Fitness participants as they discover this power for themselves. She emphasizes the importance of setting sustainable and realistic goals that meet each individual where they are in their journey.
“The process of making changes with nutrition needs to be enjoyable for it to last,” Ellen shared. “So identifying foods and flavors you enjoy and creating healthy options with these choices can be a great place to start.”
Join the Supportive Survivor Fitness Community
Ellen’s warmth and encouragement shine through in everything she does. When asked what advice she would give to a cancer survivor considering joining Survivor Fitness, she brims with enthusiasm: “Make the jump! This team is so excited and anxiously awaiting to support you. We will meet you where you are at, no matter where you are at. There is always something new to be learned about your health, nutrition, and fitness journey and we are here to guide you!”
If you’re a personal trainer, fitness center, nutritionist, or registered dietitian interested in supporting cancer survivors after treatment, we encourage you to connect with our team and learn how you can join the Survivor Fitness network.
For cancer survivors looking to regain their strength after treatment, we invite you to explore our programs and submit an application today! Together, with the support of our incredible partners like Ellen, we can help you navigate your journey toward a healthier and happier future.
