For most people, cancer comes without warning. One day you’re managing life as usual, and the next you’re facing appointments, treatment decisions, and an uncertain future. And even when treatment ends, you’re faced with the new challenge of deciding how to move forward and reclaim your life.
For Survivor Fitness participant David Staton, that decision came with a clear motto: Choose life.
David faced cancer head-on with grit and determination. But he’ll be the first to tell you that the journey isn’t easy. From treatment side effects to mental battles and the weight cancer places on loved ones, David faced many significant challenges and difficult decisions.
Choosing to participate in Survivor Fitness’ personal fitness program was one of the “easy choices” that helped him regain not only his strength but his confidence.
Facing an Unexpected Diagnosis
“I was the guy who was always healthy,” David shared. “Rarely went to the doctor.”
In 2020, David started working out regularly after a little encouragement from his daughter. That small shift toward a more active lifestyle would lay a foundation he didn’t realize he would need.
“In 2022, after experiencing symptoms, I was diagnosed with advanced, aggressive cancer,” he said. “Being in the gym leading up to that prepared my body for the fight ahead.”
But nothing truly prepares you for the toll that cancer treatment takes both physically and mentally.
“When you find yourself weak, unable to do what you’ve always done, it can really affect your mental state,” he said. “And wondering if the cancer will return is always on your mind.”
Finding Strength Again with Survivor Fitness
After finishing treatment, David knew he didn’t want to slip back into survival mode. He wanted to live.
“I was not ready to roll over and give up,” he said. “Survivor Fitness showed me that you can get your life back.”
David’s connection to Survivor Fitness came through his daughter, who was friends with Survivor Fitness Trainer Carrie Loughlin at A|Train Fitness in Nashville. When Carrie learned about David’s diagnosis, she assured his daughter that Survivor Fitness could help.
“I’m thankful for my introduction to Survivor Fitness every day,” he said.
The experience made a significant impact from the very beginning.
“Carrie knows how chemo affects your body, and she knows the steps to take to begin working out consistently again,” David explained. “She showed me that I can do more than I think. Getting over that mental obstacle is so important.”
Throughout his time with Survivor Fitness, David has built a new kind of discipline.
“I do not view fitness as an option or a hobby,” he said. “Fitness is the gateway to life and health. I don’t work out because I feel like it, I work out because I want to live.”
“I incorporate what I’ve learned into every workout,” David shared. “Survivor Fitness has given me tools I use every day.”
The Bigger Picture
While David’s personal growth has been powerful, he’s also mindful of the impact his cancer diagnosis had on his family—especially his wife.
“It not only takes a toll on you, it affects everyone in your life,” he said. “Watching my wife completely shift from normal life to being my caregiver has been hard. She deserves the world after all she has done.”
Today, David shares his story with others, encouraging fellow survivors to take their next steps toward recovery and healing.
“I have told so many people who have similar stories about Survivor Fitness,” he said. “Recent clinical studies show how important exercise is in the fight against cancer. You can’t just depend on medicine alone. There are things you can do that will make a difference.”
Get Involved with the Survivor Fitness Community
David’s story is a powerful reminder that recovery is more than just surviving; it’s about making intentional choices to reclaim your strength and your life. At Survivor Fitness, we’re honored to walk alongside participants like David, who are choosing life each day.
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.