Strength for Life was founded in memory of a friend and mentor, Evelyn Knapp, who lost her battle with breast cancer in 2005 at the young age of 40. As an exercise physiologist, she spent her was passionate in promoting exercise and proper nutrition to her clients, family and friends. Evelyn’s motivation and dedication helped countless individuals engage in a healthier lifestyle and achieve optimal wellness. After being diagnosed with breast cancer, she continued exercising throughout treatment. She would say it gave her a feeling of control in an uncontrollable situation. From there she made a new commitment to promote exercise for cancer patients so they, too, would experience the benefits. Evelyn lost her battle 18 months into her fight, however her mission was not lost. Our organization was formed in her memory so we may continue her work and make her vision a reality.
Soon after we became Certified Cancer Exercise Specialists we started speaking at cancer support groups to educate survivors on the benefits of incorporating exercise into the treatment plan. We quickly realized that people with cancer had no information on the proper way to train after surgery and during treatment. Outrageous medical costs associated with cancer treatment left little room for a personal trainer or gym membership for the majority of those diagnosed. Recognizing that need, we decided to apply our experience by starting a nonprofit organization to help educate the community on the benefits of adding an exercise program to their treatment and recovery plan and reducing the risk of certain cancer and recurrences.
So with passion and pure intentions our Strength for Life journey began……
Jacqui has spent the last fifteen years in the health and fitness industry. She is certified as aCancer Wellness Specialist by Medical Health and Fitness; certified as a Health Fitness Instructor/Personal Fitness Trainer from Hofstra University and the Academy of Applied Personal Training Education; and received an Associate in Science…
Debbie’s interest in fitness and nutrition led her to her first personal training job over 20 years ago. She became Nautilus Certified and continued her education by attending Suffolk Community College to earn her AS as Fitness Specialist. Throughout the years Debbie has worked with a variety of clients with…
