#34: "Exercise saved my life." Interview with StrongerLife member Melissa
At StrongerLife, we believe real strength is about more than lifting weights — it’s about being READY for whatever life throws your way.
We just never know what's coming in life and in the latest episode Fitness for 55+ Podcast, brought to you by StrongerLife in Lexington, KY, physical therapist Dr. Jeff Musgrave interviews StrongerLife member Melissa who shares her inspiring journey of overcoming a severe health crisis and how her strength and cardio building impacted her outcomes and recovery.
“But the biggest takeaway was that it was a unanimous consensus of every doctor I talked to. every nurse, every therapist, family, friend, whatever, anybody who knew anything about what was going on with the bleeding and everything that went after the surgery said, if I had not been as strong as I was, I would probably not have made it. ”
Listen as Melissa discusses her initial struggles with health, the transformative impact of exercise, and how her strength training played a crucial role in her recovery from a complex surgery and the post-surgery complications. The conversation emphasizes the importance of maintaining physical fitness, especially as one ages, and how it can significantly affect health outcomes during a medical crisis.
Are you Tired of being Tired?
Melissa’s story isn’t just inspiring — it’s a powerful reminder of why we work so hard to stay strong, even when life gets tough, schedules get busy, and workouts feel challenging.
Melissa is a a mom of four, grandma of 10, retired teacher, and military wife. Before she joined Stronger Life, Melissa was tired of feeling tired and not taking care of herself. She had lost 50 pounds before, but it had all come back. Melissa knew she could not continue living like this. Her primary care physician heard her concerns and recommended StrongerLife.
Is it Easy to Make a Change?
The journey was not easy. At first Melissa said it was hard and she was sore. But this did not last long. Melissa will be the first to tell you that those early workouts were tough. But she stuck with it. She noticed real changes faster than she expected: lower blood pressure, more energy, and more stamina.
“I stuck with it and I got to where I hated to miss it. I would get upset if we had snowy weather and things like that.”
Get Fit for Today’s Adventures and Prepare for Tomorrow’s Unknowns
Melissa underwent a major surgery called a Whipple procedure — which is a complex, high-risk operation. Her surgery went well but then her recovery did not. She suffered serious complications that led to multiple hospitalizations, blood transfusions, and some very scary moments!
The outcome could have been devastating.
But Melissa says, “Exercise saved my life.!
Had she been frail, the story could have ended very differently. Instead, Melissa amazed her care team with her resilience, pushed herself through inpatient rehab, physical therapy, and returned to Stronger Life classes with a fire and determination that has inspired everyone around her.
Today, Melissa is living proof of what we tell our members every day: You don’t just get strong for today — you get strong for tomorrow, and every unexpected challenge it might bring. At StrongerLife we encourage our members to get strong and be consistent, because we don't know what's coming.
Melissa’s story isn’t just about survival. It’s about thriving, about building a life full of vitality, energy, and joy — even after facing unimaginable obstacles.
StrongerLife will be hosting a tour of our facilities on Saturday, May 17, 2025 | 10 AM
Want to learn more about StrongerLife and what we offer?
Come see what all the hype's about! Come for a tour of StrongerLife - The Best Gym for 55+ in Lexington. We'll show you our facility built for people 55+, our unique program, and answer any questions you may have!
Location: StrongerLife at 163 Old Todds Rd. Suite 115, Lexington, KY 40509
When: Saturday, May 17, 2025 | 10 AM
StrongerLife is a science-based program created by Doctors of Physical Therapy specializing in Active Aging. We offer Group Classes and Personal Training that are led by professionally trained coaches.