In honor of Cancer Survivor Month and our partnership with the American Cancer Society, we’re spotlighting inspiring stories from members who embody what it means to rise, rebuild, and move forward with strength. Today, we’re honored to share the journey of Michelle Lepore, a dedicated member of Club Pilates Wellington.
Author: Michelle L., Club Pilates Wellington Member
Michelle Lepore has always understood the power of perseverance. As a young girl, she witnessed her mother’s quiet courage after a breast cancer diagnosis. That moment stayed with her as a reminder of strength in the face of the unknown.
In 2023, Michelle’s own world shifted. At the age of 62, shortly before her mother’s passing, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. What followed was a grueling year of chemotherapy, a double mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery. But through each procedure, every tough day, and all the unknowns, Michelle carried one thing with her: gratitude.
“No one is ever prepared for cancer,” she says. “But I was strengthened by the love of family, friends, and an incredible team of doctors at Moffitt Cancer Center. Thanks to them—and regular screenings—I’m now cancer free. Mammograms saved my life.”
Michelle had joined Club Pilates Wellington in March 2023, nearly a year before her diagnosis. She quickly fell in love with the daily rhythm of movement, attending class four to five times a week and working toward her goal of hitting 250 classes.
That goal had to pause, but never disappeared. Even while enduring chemo and surgeries, the studio remained in her heart as a symbol of healing, hope, and return.
“Club Pilates became my finish line,” she shares. “When I got the all-clear to return to exercise, I immediately reached out to Darby, the studio manager. She welcomed me back with open arms and even reinstated my full class history. I finally hit that 250-class milestone—tears and all.”
For Michelle, Pilates isn’t just about physical strength—it’s about mental resilience. Every early morning class brings renewed energy, restored calm, and the reminder that even after the hardest chapters, we can rise stronger.
“It’s been a journey rebuilding my strength, but I feel better every day. My Club Pilates family in Wellington has been such an important part of that.”
Thank you for sharing your story, Michelle. You are an inspiration.
This June, we’re proud to stand alongside the American Cancer Society to honor survivors like
Michelle and support those still in the fight. As part of this national partnership, we’re encouraging our community to join the movement in attending donation based classes at your local studio, keep an eye out for limited-edition Cancer Awareness merch, or even donate to help drive awareness and support life-saving research: Click here to contribute:
