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Patient Stories > Nick Fields

Nick Fields

Ridley-Tree Cancer Center

Cancer WellFit Program

When Nick Fields was diagnosed with an extremely rare malignant brain tumor at just thirty years old, his world turned upside down. After surgery and during ongoing treatment with chemotherapy and radiation, he discovered Cancer WellFit, a 10-week program funded by the Cancer Foundation, that would prove transformative in his recovery journey.

“I felt like I’d lost so much — my energy, independence, and ability to do what I love, like surfing and playing music,” Nick recalled. “WellFit sounded like exactly what I needed to reconnect with my body.”

The program offers gentle, personalized exercises designed specifically for cancer patients who have become deconditioned from treatment. What sets WellFit apart is its highly individualized approach — trainers tailor workouts to each participant’s needs and goals. For Nick, this meant incorporating exercises to rebuild his paddle strength and balance for surfing.

Beyond the physical benefits, WellFit provided Nick with crucial emotional support during his challenging medical journey. “Chemo brings tough side effects, and I often get anxious before each round. Having a routine and a place where people understand what I’m going through has made a huge difference,” he shared.

The program’s emphasis on showing up, regardless of energy levels, gave Nick a sense of purpose and community. “Without fail, I’d show up twice a week,” he said. “And I’d always leave feeling a little stronger and a little more hopeful.” Through WellFit, Nick found strength through both physical rehabilitation and a supportive community that understood his journey.

“Without fail, I’d show up twice a week, and I’d always leave feeling a little stronger and a little more hopeful.”