Personal testimonials

When I was diagnosed in 2021 with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, I knew I had a fight ahead of me. I knew that my life would be forever changed. But I knew that the only choice for me was to have a positive attitude and stay strong. I had an amazing support system including family, friends, my doctor's, co-workers and apparently even strangers were praying for me. 

Fast forward 2 years later and a cancer-free diagnosis. I was happy of course but apparently not as elated as those around me thought I should feel. "You are dont.The cancer is gone. you could go on enjoying life again." These were just a few of the things I was told.

No one told me about life after cancer. I did not know what to expect, how much my body would have changed, and how alone I would feel. For me the hardest part of my entire journey has been the last part: living life as a survivor.

I was discussing all of these feelings and emotions with a colleague. She referred me to Jennifer and told me that she was a breast cancer survivor and that she has made it her mission to pay it forward and help other cancer survivors. Altough each cancer diagnosis has its own attributes, cancer patients share a similar story. Our cancers were different but she did not turn me away. On my first phone talk therapy session with Jennifer, I felt an instant connection. I had found someone who could relate to haow I have been feeling, a bit lost and alone. She validated myfeelings and instantly I no longer felt alone. We discussed our diagnosis, treatment plans and such things as hair loss, weight gain, body changes, etc. She told me that she also felt that this was the ost difficult part of her journey.

Jennifer has incorporated fitness into her lifestyle of Wellness through Warrior Workouts. We begain walking duirng our sessions and this has helped me physically as well as mentally.

Jennifer Supported me in accapting where I am at this stage of my journey and that this is not the end. It is the beginning of a new life. She has given me some helpful tips and strategies to carry through my everyday life. Most importantly, I feel she has given me a place to feel welcome and comfortable in sharing my story as well as MY feelings and day to day Struggles.

- Joanna F.

Listening to you (Jennifer) talk was uplifting, and inspirational. Your outlook on life and in general is incredible. I listen to the best football coaches in the country speak and they inspire and motivate kids like  no other.

I have to tell you listening to them speak and you speak yesterday, I can honestly say you are going to be incredible in your new role of helping others and inspiring and motivating.

I have no doubt that you are going to change the lives of many people. You are a special person.

- Craig P.

This week's guest contributor is Jen Trettner, our District Visual Arts Coordinator. Jen is not in our competition but someone whom I have looked towards for a long time now for guidance and inspriation when it comes to getting my health going in the right direction. In December 2021, Jen was diagnosed with breast cancer. Throughout her treatment and recovery she has learned and re-trained herself to keep up her health exercise routines. I have closely followed Jen's progress over the last year and at every turn, she has turned obstacles and disappointment into motivation to move past them. Jen is now a Cancer Exercise Specialist (CETI), Integrative Wellness & Life Coach (IWA) and  received her certification from NASM in Stretching & Flexibility.

 - Phil M.

I just had a fabulous conversation with our very own rockstar Jennifer. She has graciously offered to help me get back on track with my nutrition. Zoom calls make working with Jennifer from another state super easy.

- Kathy S.

So happy to see Jennifer moving her body this morning in our private group. What an inspiration.

- Sonya P.