Partner Spotlight: Sportsbarn

participants during a Sportsbarn workout class

While offers of support pour in after a diagnosis, the truth is that cancer survivors need a support system even after treatment ends. As Survivor Fitness continues to grow, we seek partners who share our values and are committed to helping cancer survivors thrive. Sportsbarn in Chattanooga is a perfect example of such a partner. 

We recently connected with Teresa Wade, Health and Fitness Director at Sportsbarn, to celebrate this partnership and the success stories that have emerged. 

Teresa’s insights reflect the incredible work happening at Sportsbarn and the powerful connections formed between participants and trainers. For many Survivor Fitness participants, personal trainers are much more than fitness professionals. They become partners in healing, guides in transformation, and cheerleaders through the process of reclaiming strength and confidence.

Building Connections that Last

Since partnering with Survivor Fitness in 2023, Sportsbarn’s trainers have worked with more than a dozen participants, creating meaningful and transformative relationships. At the heart of our programs is the bond between trainers and participants—a connection rooted in trust, encouragement, and mutual growth.

“This has been a great program for our Club,” Teresa shared. “The trainers, participants, and other members who work out at Sportsbarn have all benefited in different ways.”

The strong bond between trainers and participants is evident in the fact that many survivors choose to continue their fitness journey with their trainers even after completing the 12-week programs.

Teresa emphasized the personal rewards trainers experience when working with participants. For them, it’s about being a steady source of support and encouragement for someone navigating a life-changing journey. She reflected on her own connection to the programs, saying how blessed she feels to be part of the program.

Guidance and Encouragement for Survivors

As a seasoned Health and Fitness Director, Teresa has seen the transformative power of physical activity and personalized support for cancer survivors. She offers thoughtful advice to participants embarking on their fitness journey.

“The most important thing I encourage participants to consider is to listen to your body and do not compare yourself to others. Your trainer always has your best interest in mind, so listening to them is one of the best things you can do.”

For many participants, stepping into a gym or fitness program after treatment can be intimidating. Teresa’s advice underscores the importance of trusting the process and celebrating small victories.

In addition to fitness, nutrition plays a critical role in recovery and overall well-being. Teresa encourages participants to find a healthy eating approach that works for them rather than relying on trendy diets or cookie-cutter programs. While trainers may not be dietitians, they can provide valuable guidance to participants seeking to pair fitness with sound nutritional practices.

Join the Movement

We’re incredibly grateful to have partners like Sportsbarn and countless other facilities across Tennessee.

If you’re a personal trainer or registered dietitian interested in joining us as a partner, we invite you to connect with our team and learn more about making a difference in the lives of cancer survivors.

If you’re a cancer survivor ready to take the first step toward healing and wholeness, we’re here to support you. Learn more about our programs or apply today to begin your journey to a brighter, healthier future.

Partner Spotlight: Robbie Robertson at Fitness Central

robbie robertson at fitness central, partner spotligh

One of the foundational truths of Survivor Fitness is that our partners and trainers are often as deeply impacted by their work as the participants they serve. This is especially true for Robbie Robertson of Fitness Central in Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Robbie joined the Fitness Central team in early 2024. Not long after joining, he was introduced to the Survivor Fitness programs by a co-worker. The trainer, who was working with a Survivor Fitness participant, recognized Robbie’s enthusiasm and experience and thought he’d be a great fit.

The connection felt right on a personal level, too. Robbie shared that his passion for this work is deeply rooted in his own experience with a loved one’s battle with cancer.

“My favorite person in the world—my grandmother—passed last year after a battle with pancreatic cancer, so the opportunity to work with Survivor Fitness was a no-brainer,” Robbie shared.

Since diving into the programs, Robbie has worked with five Survivor Fitness participants this year, each bringing their own strength and resilience that continues to affect him in profound ways.

The Power of Perspective

Reflecting on his experience, Robbie sums up his biggest takeaway with one word: perspective.

“You’re hit with a wide range of goals, motivations, and obstacles as a trainer, but when you’re working with someone who’s battling their way back from cancer, it makes you reflect on what’s really important and how exercise can help heal the body and the mind,” he explains.

Robbie’s interactions with Survivor Fitness participants have shown him the courage and humor these survivors bring, even in the face of physically demanding workouts. 

“Without fail, the survivors I’ve worked with always have the most effortlessly funny attitudes and personalities,” Robbie says. “They’ve been through more than most of us can even imagine; I guess it should be no surprise they maintain a sunny disposition even through walking lunges.”

Robbie’s experience underscores that perspective is more than just an outlook—it’s a powerful reminder of the strength participants bring and the joy they find along the way, even in small, shared moments.

Taking an Empowering Approach to Recovery

For many cancer survivors, the road to recovery is not just about physical strength but also reclaiming control and confidence. Robbie has seen how programs like Survivor Fitness can foster both. He encourages participants to embrace small, steady steps toward health and well-being, recognizing the importance of mental resilience as they build physical strength.

“The physical benefits of fitness usually get all the glory, but the psychological benefits are invaluable in working your way back to feeling like yourself again,” Robbie explains.

Robbie emphasizes an empowering mindset—helping participants set realistic goals and recognize their achievements as they work towards reclaiming their health. He’s a strong advocate for gradual, sustainable progress, focusing on building a foundation that supports long-term wellness and prevents injury.

“A couple of really hard workouts right out of the gate will have roughly ZERO positive impact on your long-term health goals, but gradually building healthy habits into your routine (like working out regularly) will make them a lot more likely to stick.”

Robbie’s approach is built on communication, collaboration, and trust, providing participants with the structure they need to feel supported and encouraged throughout their journey. By tailoring the programs to each participant’s needs and abilities, he empowers them to safely build strength and embrace newfound abilities along the way.

Join the Survivor Fitness Community

At Survivor Fitness, we’re incredibly grateful for partners like Robbie Robertson and the dedication he brings to our participants. His thoughtful approach, commitment to individualized care, and genuine passion for helping survivors grow stronger make him an invaluable asset to the Survivor Fitness mission.

Want to partner with us and help survivors on their recovery journey? Reach out to our team – we’d love to connect!

If you’re a survivor ready to rebuild your strength and health, learn more about our programs or apply today!

Partner Spotlight: Peak Fitness

peak fitness logo sign

The recovery journey after cancer treatment is filled with unique challenges. Physical, emotional, and mental well-being must all be nurtured—and having someone who truly understands the impact of cancer on the body can make a world of difference.

At Survivor Fitness, we are grateful to work with partners who have experience or specialized training in working with cancer survivors. One of these standout partners is Peak Fitness and Physical Therapy, an outpatient clinic built on the philosophy of individualized, one-on-one care. With highly skilled therapists and personal trainers, Peak Fitness focuses not only on achieving optimal physical outcomes but also on supporting the overall well-being of every client.

For this spotlight, we connected with Anna Brown, a Certified Personal Trainer at Peak Fitness, to hear her experiences working with Survivor Fitness participants and how this journey has inspired her.

The Power of Personal Connections: Inspired by Participants

Anna joined Peak Fitness earlier this year, diving right into her work with Survivor Fitness participants—and it didn’t take long for her to feel the impact of these experiences. She describes her work with participants as both inspiring and rewarding.

“The participants are so ready and willing to work hard, and they make incredible progress so quickly! They are some of the hardest workers I have encountered, and for this reason, I am inspired to continue working with them,” Anna shared.

One of her favorite aspects of this partnership is learning about participants beyond their cancer journeys. While cancer has shaped part of their life, Anna loves seeing firsthand that it does not define them.

She takes the time to get to know each individual—discovering their hobbies, their interests, and even their sense of humor. These personal connections make the training process not only enjoyable but meaningful.

Anna also reflects on the small victories that make each session memorable.

“Getting to know my Survivor Fitness participants and seeing the determination and resilience they hold has been phenomenal. They often step outside of their comfort zones and surpass the expectations they had for themselves, which inspires me to never set boundaries or limitations for myself.”

She recalled one particularly uplifting moment when a participant, who had never tried strength training before, progressed during a workout.

“Watching her move up in weight for the first time was so much fun to see. Her face lit up with pride when she realized that she had gotten stronger, and that moment has stuck with me since.”

These small wins—like lifting a bit more weight or realizing newfound strength—are moments that remind Anna why she loves working with Survivor Fitness participants.

Making Progress, Your Way: Practical Advice for the Recovery Journey

When asked for advice for cancer survivors embarking on their recovery journey, Anna emphasized the importance of patience and personalizing the process.

“Training is not always linear, and it is not one size fits all! It is vital to incorporate your personal preferences in training while continuing to keep an open mind to new ideas.”

She also shared practical tips that can help cancer survivors regain strength and vitality, including:

  • Incorporating gentle exercise activities: Consider activities such as hiking, resistance training, climbing, or walking to help build bone density.
  • Making sustainable dietary changes: Focus on gradually adding more nutrient-dense whole foods to your meals.
  • Establishing consistent sleep routines: Try to wake up and go to bed at the same time each day to improve rest and recovery.

As a final note of encouragement, Anna offers a powerful reminder:

“Progress takes time, but the progress is undeniable! One day you may look around and notice that you no longer feel winded after walking up the stairs, your muscles and joints no longer ache after playing with your children, grandchildren, nieces, or nephews, or that you have more energy to enjoy your life with! The first step can sometimes be the most daunting, but it is absolutely worth it.”

Join the Survivor Fitness Community

At Survivor Fitness, we are incredibly grateful for Peak Fitness and the dedication they bring to helping our participants thrive. With a thoughtful, individualized approach and a deep commitment to each person’s well-being, Peak Fitness is an essential partner in helping survivors move forward—stronger than ever.

Want to partner with us and help survivors on their recovery journey? Reach out to our team – we’d love to connect!

If you’re a survivor ready to rebuild your strength and health, learn more about our programs or apply today!

Partner Spotlight – Ellen Smartt

Professional portrait of Ellen Smartt

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.

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!

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.

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! 

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! 

Partner Spotlight: D1 Knoxville

Adam Kerr sitting on a weight bench smiling in fitness attire

One of the best things about the Survivor Fitness program is that we partner with fitness trainers who are all specialists in their field.

These trainers also have a deep understanding of the power of movement and the effect fitness can have on mental and emotional well-being. They have a strong desire to help others, and they use their extensive expertise to create personal, customized training programs for cancer survivors after difficult, painful, and exhausting treatments and surgeries.

Andrew Kerr, a fitness coach and personal trainer at D1 Training Hardin Valley in Knoxville, is a perfect example of a trainer who works with Survivor Fitness. He’s been helping individuals reach their fitness goals for years, and he understands the unique challenges that cancer survivors face.

This year, Devin Driscoll, the owner of D1 Training in Knoxville, joined the Survivor Fitness board, and he tapped Andrew to help run the program at their location. Andrew immediately jumped at the opportunity, and he’s now responsible for helping new participants connect with coaches at D1 Knoxville.

“When Devin came to me about running the program—and with the good I knew it would do—there was no way I was turning it down,” Andrew said. “While I love getting the chance to work with athletes, I knew the opportunity that Survivor Fitness created is something that truly makes an immediate impact on those in the community.”

Andrew’s passion for helping cancer survivors is also driven by a personal connection to the disease. Earlier this year, his dad was diagnosed with lung cancer, and Andrew saw firsthand the devastating effects that both the illness and its treatment can have on a person’s physical and mental health. That experience made him even more determined to help others affected by cancer.

“We all know someone who has had cancer. It affects every single person who has any attachment at all to the person diagnosed. I and the other trainers want to use what we know to hopefully help others to live longer and healthier lives.” 

From Chemo to Cones: Inspiring Stories from Participants

As a personal trainer, Andrew has seen firsthand the positive impact that physical fitness can have on anyone’s mental and emotional health. He is continually inspired to see this transformation happen in Survivor Fitness participants.

“My favorite part is knowing that after the first few weeks, they are going to start enjoying what we are doing and how they feel,” Andrew said. “It’s like clockwork. They come in after two to three weeks, and the soreness goes away while the motivation kicks in. It’s a joy to watch.”

One particularly memorable Survivor Fitness participant for Andrew was Brenda. Brenda started the program when she was 88 years old and had just finished her chemo. She was also a senior league tennis champion who was determined to continue playing.

“Watching her train and run cones at her age with the motivation and energy she did was inspiring, to say the least,” Andrew said.

Advice for Survivors: Embracing Small Milestones 

D1 Knoxville has already worked with around ten cancer survivors, and they are eager to increase that number in the years to come. 

“Exercise is such an important feature of healing, and we want as many people as possible to have access to that,” Andrew said.

Andrew and his team are passionate about helping cancer survivors recognize and celebrate the small milestones that make a big difference to their overall health and wellness. The team at D1 understands that cancer affects the body in many different ways, so they encourage participants to start slowly and be patient with themselves.

“It’s not about how much you lift—it’s about how you lift it,” Andrew said. “I like to use things that relate to daily life. If you can get up and down easier, if you can take a walk and not be exhausted, if you can do yard work and just enjoy being outside… those are the things that matter after fighting for your life.”

Andrew’s experiences with the program have led him to be an advocate for Survivor Fitness in the Knoxville area. He encourages people who are considering the program to take the plunge and go for it. 

“My grandmother always used to say, ‘Don’t talk about it, be about it,'” Andrew said. “As the son of a cancer survivor, I want him around for as long as possible, so give yourself every tool available to continue the fight.”

Join the Survivor Fitness Community

Andrew’s passion for Survivor Fitness is evident in his dedication to helping participants achieve their goals. He is a valuable partner, and we are grateful for his support.
If you are a personal trainer or fitness center that is interested in helping cancer survivors after treatment, please contact our team to learn how to become a part of the Survivor Fitness network.

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!

Partner Spotlight: C3 Health & Beauty

Stephanie Chunn

Starting a fitness routine after cancer can be incredibly overwhelming. Cancer treatment can change physical capabilities and upend a person’s understanding of their body. The mental and emotional toll of a cancer diagnosis and treatment is often just as debilitating as the physical aftereffects.

Finding a way forward after cancer treatment requires plenty of personal care, encouragement, and motivation along the way. 

Survivor Fitness Partner Stephanie Chunn of C3 Health & Beauty is a shining example of a trainer offering personal fitness expertise and encouragement to support participants in our program. As a certified cancer exercise specialist, Stephanie understands the unique challenges that participants face. She works with each participant to develop a personal training plan based on their individual needs and goals.

Finding a New Lease on Life 

Stephanie started working with Survivor Fitness participants in 2020, but her connection to the cancer community was established years earlier. As part of her business at C3 Health & Beauty, Stephanie began offering training sessions.

“I love seeing the positive difference that health and fitness can offer survivors,” Stephanie shared. “It’s beyond rewarding when clients share that they see benefits of training with me in their everyday life, such as gardening and playing with their kids or grandkids.” 

Since joining the Survivor Fitness community, Stephanie has worked with more than 20 participants. Her appointment-only fitness studio offers a welcoming environment for our participants in Knoxville. Stephanie has also played a valuable role in expanding Survivor Fitness’ virtual training program — working with participants across the state each week over Zoom. Stephanie has a natural gift for teaching participants how to use non-traditional equipment to incorporate fitness into their everyday routines and lives. 

“There have been times where I’ve worked with participants to use a piece of furniture and their body weight for a specific exercise during a session,” she recalled.” Even if you may not have a particular piece of equipment, we can find creative solutions.” 

Inspired by Their Milestone Moments

Like many Survivor Fitness partners, Stephanie finds her own source of motivation and personal inspiration from working with participants. 

“As a personal trainer, we often show up to make participants feel good when they leave,” she shared. “But our Survivor Fitness participants are equally encouraging to me. Seeing them show up and give 110% every session motivates me. I’m always more fueled from our time together.” 

For Stephanie, the most meaningful aspect of working with Survivor Fitness participants is the moment they recognize their progress. Whether it’s being able to lift a weight that was impossible a few weeks earlier or noticing how their balance has improved, she cherishes the milestone moments that participants reach. 

“Whether it’s halfway through the program or at the end of our time together, these moments let them know that change is possible,” she said.  

Transformation Through Inspiration

Stephanie does a great job of walking alongside each participant during their transformation journey — offering information and inspiration. She helps each participant recognize that every journey is different by reminding them that “this is your own race; go at your own pace.” 

“I love to encourage participants that we’re creating a lifestyle for a lifetime,” she shared. “It’s important to believe that change is possible, but recognize that it may take time.”  

Stephanie does an incredible job of working with each participant to find areas of improvement and make incremental progress over time. Her inspirational words of encouragement often leave a lasting impact. It’s not unusual for Stephanie to get a text from a former participant thanking her. And in her own fashion, Stephanie will often send inspirational and motivational messages to participants — even after they’ve completed the program.  

Join the Survivor Fitness Community

We’re incredibly grateful for Stephanie 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 today!