Participant Spotlight: Leisha Smith

Our participants and graduates can attest to the value of encouragement and support from those who have walked or may be walking a similar path toward overcoming cancer. Hearing their stories of recovery and success in regaining their strength is part of what gives us the motivation to inspire others along the way. 

Leisha Smith is a shining example of someone who took charge of her cancer journey and is now feeling stronger and healthier. In this Q&A feature, learn more about how Survivor Fitness helped Leisha regain her health and wellness.

A Q & A with Leisha Smith

Survivor Fitness: Tell us about your diagnosis and why you began the Survivor Fitness programs.

Leisha Smith: In 2015, I tested positive for the BRCA gene, meaning my chances of getting breast or ovarian or both cancers were significantly higher than those without the gene. So, I decided to have a prophylactic bilateral mastectomy and remove my tubes and ovaries. I was being proactive, making my chances of getting breast cancer less than 1%. Then, in January 2020, I felt the tumor in my armpit. I was shocked. Every doctor from my gynecologist to the radiologist who performed the biopsy stated this couldn’t be cancer, but deep down I knew.

Because I had already done the preventative surgery, my oncologist wanted to be aggressive.  I only had the tumor, and it was contained. My breast cancer was hormone positive. So, I went through the entire protocol of two rounds of chemotherapy and 32 radiation treatments. My journey started in January 2020 and finished December 2020. 

After finishing chemotherapy and radiation, I was weak, and, for the first time in my life, I looked “fragile.” I have always been an athlete, so it was shocking to see the toll treatment has on your body—the loss of muscle mass and being constantly weak. I wanted to have control of my body again, so I started looking for fitness training that was tailored toward cancer survivors. That’s how I discovered Survivor Fitness.  

I loved the Survivor Fitness story and mission and was super excited to begin the programs in Spring of 2021. Being a cancer survivor is only a small part of who I am. This journey has been amazing because, as I got stronger physically, my mental and emotional well-being improved significantly. 

SF: How have you been able to regain your health and wellness throughout your time with Survivor Fitness?

LS: Survivor Fitness has allowed me to join a group of individuals who I can only describe as warriors! Meg is such a positive force and makes you feel like you are a part of the family. I was also able to connect with a knowledgeable trainer—Carissa Mahoney at Performance Training, Inc. (PTI)—and focus on building up my stamina and lean muscle. I also spoke with the dietitian to discuss healthy eating habits, since treatment really diminishes the desire to eat.

SF: What makes the relationship with Survivor Fitness so good?

LS: For me, it is Survivor Fitness’ focus on being strong and their mindset of “I can!” Cancer takes something from you. You feel frail and weak. Survivor Fitness gives you the ability to move beyond the label of cancer “patient” to “survivor.”

SF: In what ways does Survivor Fitness empower you to stay active and healthy?

LS: I love that Survivor Fitness “checks in”on me and how they offer group classes and informational webinars. 

SF: What would you tell someone else who might be on a similar journey and is considering being a Survivor Fitness participant?

LS: Definitely join! It is amazing to see yourself meet goals and get stronger—both physically and mentally. I have met more Survivor Fitness members at PTI and love seeing their progress as well.

Interested in Becoming a Survivor Fitness Participant?

If you or someone you know is a cancer survivor looking to regain your health and wellness through one-on-one personal training and nutritional support, we’re here for you! Connect with us today to learn more.

Participant Spotlight: Meghan Miller

Our participants know how powerful self-care after cancer treatment can be. We enjoy hearing stories of survivors who have used exercise and nutrition to build themselves up, and Meghan Miller is a great example of that. In this Q&A feature, you can learn more about how Survivor Fitness helped Meghan take back control of her body, mind, and self-care.

A Q & A WITH MEGHAN MILLER

Survivor Fitness: Tell us about your diagnosis and why you began the Survivor Fitness programs.

Lekisha Paige: In March 2020, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. After months of going through surgery, chemo, and radiation, I was exhausted. I learned about Survivor Fitness through another wonderful, local organization, Breast Connect, Inc. Knowing that I wanted to regain energy and strength as soon as possible, I applied for the Survivor Fitness program while still in active treatment. I was contacted shortly after and started the program in January of 2021 after finishing treatment and getting the ok from my doctor! I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to participate, and regain control over my health.

SF: How have you been able to regain your health and wellness throughout your time with Survivor Fitness?

LP: Working out with an incredible trainer allowed me to slowly and safely regain strength. I’ve learned so much about proper strength training techniques that I never knew before. Seeing a trainer twice a week held me accountable and also motivated me to work out routinely at home. I had such a great experience with my trainer that I’ve continued working with her after the program ended.

I have more energy and strength now than I did prior to cancer treatments. Self-care had been lacking with little ones, but now I make it a priority.

SF: In what ways does Survivor Fitness empower you to stay active and healthy?

LP: It feels great to be connected with a group that really understands what cancer survivors need to meet their fitness goals. Seeing others who went through the program helped make the recovery process not so daunting.

Learning how to get effective workouts completed in a reasonable time really helps me keep going. With small children, it’s easy to make excuses and tell yourself that you don’t have the time to work out. Also, Survivor Fitness offers useful events throughout the year that help keep you connected.

SF: What would you tell someone else who might be on a similar journey and is considering being a Survivor Fitness participant?

LP: Exercise offers so many benefits in general, but especially after cancer. It helps give you energy and improves your mood. The program really helps you take back some control over your body and mind after not having it for a while. It can also alleviate symptoms from ongoing treatments and lasting side effects. I highly recommend this program to every survivor I meet in the area.

Interested in Becoming a Survivor Fitness Participant?

If you or someone you know is a cancer survivor looking to regain your health and wellness through one-on-one personal training and nutritional support, we’re here for you! Connect with us today to learn more.

Participant Spotlight: Lekisha Paige

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Survivor Fitness loves helping cancer survivors trust their bodies’ strength again. We’re thrilled that Lekisha Paige had this experience as part of our community. In this Q&A feature, you can learn more about how Survivor Fitness changed her relationship with her body post-treatment.

A Q & A WITH LEKISHA PAIGE

Survivor Fitness: Tell us about your diagnosis and why you began the Survivor Fitness programs.

Lekisha Paige: I am in year 10 of remission for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). Survivor Fitness has helped change my life as a participant in their program.

I learned about the Survivor Fitness program through the REACH for Cancer Survivorship Clinic appointment. I was discussing with my Nurse Practitioner an interest in forming a healthier exercise routine, but that it is a challenge for me to figure out one that won’t hurt my joints. She suggested the Survivor Fitness program due to the tailored medical considerations that the trainers put in.

SF: How have you been able to regain your health and wellness throughout your time with Survivor Fitness?

LP: I completed my 12-week program with Chadwick’s in Franklin, Tennessee, on May 18, 2021, and the Survivor Fitness program helped me regain trust in my body. After an extensive amount of medical trauma, I lost confidence in my bones’ ability to support me while being active. I have two hip replacements from osteonecrosis, which weakens the rest of my joints as well. Before Survivor Fitness, I wouldn’t even try to get off the floor without the support of a chair or table. Now, I believe in my body and regularly get up and down from the floor. I’m also doing squats and lifting weights in a way that feels safe for me.

SF: In what ways does Survivor Fitness empower you to stay active and healthy?

LP: Fitness classes and online videos out there are generalized for people who have not had serious medical problems. Survivor Fitness pinpoints the challenge areas for individuals like myself who need help figuring out how to exercise without further injuring themselves. I will be forever grateful to Survivor Fitness for this opportunity. I feel stronger than I’ve ever been in my post-cancer years.

I would say the biggest empowerment is awareness. I went into this program with no expectations since I was unaware of how much growth potential there would be for my body. My trainer, Jared, provided me with the knowledge and tools that I needed to gain muscle while working out at Chadwick’s and continue my training at home after the 12 weeks. My nutritionist, Jill, helped me realize that I needed to work on portions and eating more frequently with a morning and afternoon snack. This has actually decreased the daily nausea that I had as a side effect of one of my prescriptions.

SF: What would you tell someone else who might be on a similar journey and is considering being a Survivor Fitness participant?

LP: I would tell my fellow survivor that they have already (or are currently) been a warrior against their own body. This takes a toll on one’s physical strength. They should take a chance on building up their abilities in a program that is specifically designed for them. It’s safer than trying to jump-start exercising on your own with a body that remembers its experience with a serious illness.

Interested in Becoming a Survivor Fitness Participant?

If you or someone you know is a cancer survivor looking to regain your health and wellness through one-on-one personal training and nutritional support, we’re here for you! Connect with us today to learn more.

Participant Spotlight: Sarah Stallings

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It’s incredible to hear stories of participants who used our program to take control of their journey. With the help of personal trainers and nutritionists, Survivor Fitness gives cancer survivors the tools to change the course of their health and their life. Sarah Stallings experienced this firsthand. We’re excited to shine a spotlight on her in this Q & A feature.

A Q & A WITH SARAH STALLINGS

Survivor Fitness: Tell us about your relationship with Survivor Fitness and how you became a participant.

Sarah Stallings: My nurse navigator at my cancer center told me about Survivor Fitness when we were talking about me wanting to get back into the gym!

SF: When did your journey with Survivor Fitness begin?

SS: I began my journey around September of 2020.

SF: How have you been able to regain your health and wellness throughout your time with Survivor Fitness?

SS: Survivor Fitness connected me with Performance Fitness Training and trainer Dustin Price. I have consistently trained with him since September! Without Survivor Fitness, I doubt I would be where I am. I probably would have just accepted the muscle loss and weight gain and given up. Everyone has been so encouraging through every step, and the gyms you partner with truly take your cancer story into consideration when making a workout plan that makes sense for you.

I also loved the communication and down-to-earth feel! I had exchanged emails and phone calls with several people, but during Survivor Fitness’ Gainsgiving Thanksgiving workout in 2020, I worked out alongside Meg and Aaron. They were so sweet and encouraging. Their Instagram is also always active, and seeing their encouragement keeps me going! The check-in emails and calls make me feel cared for, and it makes me want to keep pushing to become a success!

SF: What would you tell someone else who might be on a similar journey and is considering being a Survivor Fitness participant?

SS: Do it! Don’t be scared! The trainers and gyms they place you with are amazing and will help you on your journey. I have never been so excited to work out and see progress as I was when I started with Survivor Fitness. It takes “personalized” to a whole new level, and it was just right for me! Cancer causes so many long-term issues, so the best way to help is to nip it in the bud and go for it. Survivor Fitness has helped me become who I am today.

Interested in Becoming a Survivor Fitness Participant?

If you or someone you know is a cancer survivor looking to regain your health and wellness through one-on-one personal training and nutritional support, we’re here for you! Connect with us today to learn more.

Participant Spotlight: Samantha Lovett

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The Survivor Fitness team understands first-hand how cancer diagnosis and treatment can change your perspective on your physical and mental health. That’s why it’s such a joy to hear our survivors’ testimonials. We are so thankful for the opportunity to empower our participants to regain control of their health. And so, we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Samantha Lovett in this Q & A feature.

A Q & A with Samantha Lovett

Survivor Fitness: Tell us about your relationship with Survivor Fitness and how you became a participant.

Samantha Lovett: I heard of Survivor Fitness from someone in the Cancer Support Community. Though I was still in treatment, I was highly interested in the program and hoped it would be a good intro as I was getting back into working out.

SF: When did your Survivor Fitness journey begin?

SL: Because of Survivor Fitness, I was able to work one-on-one with a trainer for three months. Though I am no longer working out through Survivor Fitness, the program has helped me continue my fitness journey!

SF: How has Survivor Fitness helped you along your journey to regaining your health and wellness?

SL: No matter your fitness level before cancer, getting back into the gym after treatment is very difficult. You know it’s important, but you have no idea how to start or what to do. I was a personal trainer before my diagnosis, so I knew how to work out and what to do. But now, it’s a weird new dynamic that’s hard to explain.

I had the support of my trainer, Nick, who pushed me and encouraged me every time I walked into the gym. I also received feedback about how to implement more plant-based protein into my diet.

What I loved most about Survivor Fitness was that it opened the door for me to get back into working out. It took the pressure and anxiety of the gym off my shoulders and allowed me to focus on where I am currently instead of where I was before cancer.

SF: In what ways does Survivor Fitness empower you to stay active and healthy?

SL: They empowered me because the program allowed me to get back into the gym. I was fairly fit before my cancer diagnosis. Getting back into the gym after cancer is a whole new ball game with so many emotions. It was so hard, but because of Survivor Fitness, I have been able to overcome the fear and anxiety of the gym and continue bettering my health.

SF: What would you tell someone else who might be on a similar journey and is considering being a Survivor Fitness participant?

SL: Do it. You will not regret it at all. It’ll be the best decision you make for yourself and your health!

Interested in Becoming a Survivor Fitness Participant?

If you or someone you know is a cancer survivor looking to regain your health and wellness through one-on-one personal training and nutritional support, we’re here for you! Connect with us today to learn more.

Participant Spotlight: Maureen Clarke

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It is always a joy to read about our participants’ experiences, especially when they’re as passionate as Maureen Clarke. She has been an advocate for our program from day one, and we are delighted to see the value that she’s gained since joining. We think you’ll be inspired by Maureen’s story, too.

A Q & A with Maureen Clarke

Survivor Fitness: Tell us about your relationship with Survivor Fitness and how you became a participant.

Maureen Clarke: I became a participant at the suggestion from my Oncologist, Dr. Means-Powell and my Surgeon Dr. Baskin, both at Tennessee Oncology. They said I should look into it after my treatment. I did. First, I called Gilda’s Club in Franklin. They knew who to call—Survivor Fitness!

SF: When did you begin your journey with Survivor Fitness?

MC: I was accepted and had my evaluation on July 20, 2020.

SF: How has Survivor Fitness helped you along your journey to regaining your health and wellness?

MC: Survivor Fitness put me on the road to regaining my health and wellness with valuable information to help me physically and nutritionally. The workouts were THE BEST I have experienced in my life! It was not the old way of reps done three times. I became noticeably stronger, leaner, and taller in those weeks. I felt so well and proudly wore my Survivor Fitness t-shirt after working out to wherever I went publicly. I did notice people reading it. 

The personal trainers for Survivor Fitness are handpicked for their knowledge and personal interest in their clients’ wellness. It showed every time I walked in—from the front desk and throughout my experience. 

When I had my last day, Jen told me I could call her anytime. Knowing my financial status somewhat, she offered the ongoing opportunity for group exercise. I suppose my own support that I use is Jen’s photo business card on my fridge in an area that I ALWAYS see.   

My memory of the training sessions I received is always vivid. Everything I learned has and will stay with me because it changed my body and mind for better health and wellness. 

I must talk about Jill Merkel, who is a Registered Dietician for Survivor Fitness. She was my therapist, my nurse, my nutritionist, and my friend. She dried my tears and helped my heart and body. She checked on me after my sessions with Survivor Fitness had ended and sent me meaningful greeting cards and a beautiful flower arrangement when times were very emotionally sad. She is a wonderful and knowledgeable person.

SF: What would you tell someone else who might be on a similar journey and is considering being a Survivor Fitness participant?

MC: I absolutely have told survivors about Survivor Fitness. I tell them there is nothing that can be better! I have said there is NOTHING like a personal trainer. Nothing! I say, “you will LOVE what you will learn, and it will stay with you, in mind and body.”

Interested in Becoming a Survivor Fitness Participant?

If you or someone you know is a cancer survivor looking to regain your health and wellness through one-on-one personal training and nutritional support, we’re here for you! Connect with us today to learn more.

Participant Spotlight: Melissa Lyon

The Survivor Fitness team is forever motivated by our outstanding participants. They’ve faced such big challenges and tackled them head-on. It’s such a joy to hear our survivors’ many testimonials, and we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Melissa Lyon in this Q & A feature.

A Q & A with Melissa Lyon

Survivor Fitness: Tell us about your relationship with Survivor Fitness and how you became a participant.

Melissa Lyon: After talking to my doctor about reconstructive surgery on my breast, they needed me to lose weight before they could operate. I wanted to try diet pills, but my Nurse Navigator suggested I speak with the team at Survivor Fitness first.

SF: When did your journey with Survivor Fitness begin?

ML: I started in October of 2020 and finished up in January of 2021.

SF: How has Survivor Fitness helped you along your journey to regaining your health and wellness?

ML: Survivor Fitness put me in touch with my personal trainer, Stephanie. Stephanie took my vitals and my weight before coming up with a game plan. I went two times a week for 12 weeks, for an hour each time. She coached me to change my habits. For example, I was drinking a lot of soda instead of water. I was challenged to drink water every day, so it became two steps above hate for me. But, after I saw the end results, I was very motivated to stay active. I lost 10 pounds, as well as inches in my waist, arms, and legs. I joined a gym to keep up the work, as I still have a ways to go before reaching my goal.

SF: What would you tell someone else who might be on a similar journey and is considering being a Survivor Fitness participant?

ML: I encourage any cancer survivor struggling with their weight or getting in shape to get in touch with Survivor Fitness. Meg and Stephanie are both such awesome individuals who don’t pass judgment. I walked away from this experience motivated and feeling like I could conquer the world!

Interested in Becoming a Survivor Fitness Participant?

If you or someone you know is a cancer survivor looking to regain your health and wellness through one-on-one personal training and nutritional support, we’re here for you! Connect with us today to learn more.

Participant Spotlight: Maria London

There’s a reason why you’ll hear the phrase, “Beating cancer is just the beginning of your story” at Survivor Fitness. And the best parts of the story are often what lies ahead in each participant’s lives. It’s such a joy to hear the many testimonials of our survivors, and we’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on Maria London in this Q & A feature.

A Q & A with Maria London

Survivor Fitness: Tell us about your relationship with Survivor Fitness and how you became a participant.

Maria London: I am a breast cancer survivor. A few months back, I was sharing on my support group page my total frustration at not being able to lose any weight after my treatment and ongoing hormonal blockage. I have always been very active, but the pounds kept piling on. Meg Grunke reached out to me on the support group page and suggested I try Survivor Fitness, and I expressed interest. Money was a concern, but because the program offers scholarships to participants, I was able to take this next step.

SF: When did your journey with Survivor Fitness begin?

ML: I started my 24-session program in September of 2020. After that, I have reupped for another 12-sessions on my own. I am still seeing the personal trainer on a weekly basis.

SF: How has Survivor Fitness helped you along your journey to regaining your health and wellness?

ML: I love to hike but, after cancer, would get winded quickly, and my knees and hips would hurt all the time. I also had lost upper body strength after surgery and radiation. I was also afraid to hurt myself, not knowing what exercises were appropriate for my body after surgery and having lymph nodes removed. According to the surgeon, I will always be at risk of developing lymphedema, so I have to be very careful.

During the pandemic shutdown in 2020, I didn’t want to go to a regular gym. Working out with a personal trainer in a small gym was a game changer. My Survivor Fitness trainer knows just how far to push my body to gain strength without hurting it. I have never felt stronger or been in better shape. Hiking is such a pleasure now, as I have no pain and can go on forever. The dietitian was also very helpful. There are so many diets out there, but none are sustainable for me, so I needed to find a new way of dealing with food, and she really helped me set reasonable expectations.

SF: What makes the relationship with Survivor Fitness so good?

ML: It’s not a workout program. It’s a lifestyle change that is sustainable and completely dependent on the effort you put in. Nobody is yelling at you to do more reps, but you want to do your best because it will benefit you. Personal trainers and dietitians are the key to success. Meg and Aaron Grunke are so supportive, and they make you part of their survivor family.

SF: In what ways does Survivor Fitness empower you to stay active and healthy?

ML: If it weren’t for Survivor Fitness, I would still be sitting on the couch, telling myself that nothing was going to help me lose weight. Boy, was I wrong! Once I started working out and seeing results, I knew I could do this and stick with it. Money is still a concern, since my 24 sessions are over, and I have to pay out of my pocket for individual sessions, but I know that continuing on this journey is important.

SF: What would you tell someone else who might be on a similar journey and is considering being a Survivor Fitness participant?

ML: I am happy to say that I have already referred a friend to the program, and she is thriving. I told her how much better I felt and how my clothes fit again. I feel healthy, strong, and confident, and it’s all thanks to Survivor Fitness starting me on that path.

Interested in Becoming a Survivor Fitness Participant?

If you or someone you know is a cancer survivor looking to regain your health and wellness through one-on-one personal training and nutritional support, we’re here for you! Connect with us today to learn more.