In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and our continued partnership with the American Cancer Society, we’re proud to share the courageous journey of one of our own Shannon Geltner, General Manager of Club Pilates Colleyville & Preston Hollow in Dallas.
A Diagnosis That Changed Everything
In August 2024, Shannon went in for a routine mammogram. That visit led to a series of biopsies, and on October 4th, she received the news: Stage 2 Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, which had already metastasized to the lymph nodes under her right arm.
Shannon began chemotherapy in November and completed it in March 2025. In April, she underwent a double mastectomy and sentinel lymph node removal. She is preparing to start radiation treatment this fall, followed by reconstructive surgery in winter 2026.
Movement as Medicine
Even while undergoing chemotherapy, Shannon prioritized her Pilates practice.
“Every week I did my Pilates classes during chemo, and just having that hour to breathe in and out helped me stay grounded and lessened my anxiety,” she shared. “There were days I didn’t feel like I could get out of bed — but I did it anyway, because I knew how much my mental health needed the movement.”
Shannon has always believed in the power of movement to heal. During her cancer journey, that belief became her anchor.
A Community That Shows Up
As a long-time instructor and now General Manager, Shannon has spent years building strong relationships with her team and clients. When she was diagnosed, that same community rallied around her.
“My clients, staff, fellow GMs, and owners Debi and Todd Martin have been absolutely amazing. I’m so grateful to have such an incredible support system through Club Pilates.”
Now halfway through her treatment plan, Shannon is returning to work after recovering from surgery and she’s more inspired than ever!!
Why We’re Proud of Shannon
Shannon has been part of the Club Pilates family for 8 years. Her passion for helping others heal through movement is at the core of everything we stand for. Her strength, vulnerability, and commitment to her practice is a testament to the power of Pilates and the resilience of our community.
Thank you, Shannon, for sharing your story. You are an inspiration to us all.
Join Us in the Fight: Breast Cancer Awareness Month
This October, we’re proud to stand alongside the American Cancer Society to honor survivors like Shannon and support those still in the fight.
As part of our national partnership, we invite our Club Pilates community to get involved in meaningful ways; Join a donation-based class at your local studio or Make a direct contribution to support life-saving research, early detection programs, and resources for patients and families. Click here to contribute:
