FINDING THE POSITIVE STRENGTHfor Life

from Jim Ned Post: Vol. 1, No. 3 Spring 2023

FAITH &Fellowship

The Jim Ned Post was given the opportunity and honor to visit “Strength For Life”, see their amazing workout facility, and meet some of the SFL program participants.

The first thing that immediately stood out as soon as The Post entered the SFL building is how big the hearts are of all of the people connected to the program, participants and operators, right down to the very studs of the metal structure. “Strength for Life” is fueled by a mission of H O P E, in all capacities. Stephanie Phelps is leading the charge over at “Strength for Life”, having created a program that is quite literally standing in the gap with it’s participants, while they stare down Goliath’s of this century: cancer. It is extremely obvious that what has been cultivated at “Strength for Life” is an all-star team of individuals, coaches, trainers & “players”, that have been called together to selflessly champion one another amidst the fight of their lives; it is truly a priceless outcome that describes the kind of S-T-R-E-N-G-T-H that the “Strength for Life” program is producing.

We heard testimonies of grit and determination, love and compassion, community and support and there could never be an adequate amount of time and words to share the full stories of each SFL participant. However, the Jim Ned Post had the opportunity to briefly interview several of the participants of SFL, that live in the Jim Ned Valley, and here is some of what was shared:

Donna McBride – Two-time Breast cancer survivor: “In 2019 I was connected by my DIL Britni McBride to Stephanie Phelps (founder) and I fell in with Stephanie and how she leads her life. I was then connected to my group of ladies at SFL and we go by “Golden Girls.” I never want to miss.”

Dr. Peter Norton – Pancreatic cancer: Dr. Norton shared an inspiring story with us, of someone who was perfectly physically fit while also battling cancer. When Dr. Norton speaks, everyone listens, and we were able to hear the weight of what of these few words mean to him, “just to keep moving.” (SFL is definitely the place for that – physically and emotionally.)

Tamara Alexander – Breast Cancer and Lynch Syndrome: Tamara is a breast cancer Survivor, mom of a senior at Jim Ned and mom of a daughter in college. Tamara herself is also a former college athlete. She said what SLF means to her is it is a “support system, full of stories and encouragement for one another.”

Brian Scalf – Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma: Brian found SFL through their brochure. Brian said “he keeps coming back because Stephanie is so uplifting, the program is positively reinforcing, mentally and physically.” Brian said, “I come on terrible Tuesday and fun Friday (“A” team) with trainer, Belinda Shepherd. My group is all ladies and they all out work me!” Brian really wanted everyone to know, “We need more men! Men welcome!!”

Linda Mitchell – Breast cancer survivor: “Two of the many blessings that come to mind when I think of SFL are community and strength for the journey. SFL has provided me an opportunity to strengthen mind, body and spirit through exercise and interaction with others whose lives have also been impacted by a cancer diagnosis. It has been a place of new friendships and encouragement from those who can relate to your journey and have played a vital role in my overall recovery. I’m so grateful Stephanie Phelps’ heart led her to bring this valuable program to our community at no cost to participants. If you are looking for a community program to support, this nonprofit program is well deserved of your financial support.”

The proof is in the people. SFL currently has 105 members – 72 that come at least 2-3 times a week for an hour. In each workout class, there are 4-5 people in a group. SFL is open MWF 8-12, Tuesday 8-6, Thursday 10-6. They have certified personal trainers, also certified in training related to cancer patients, Belinda Shepherd & Cameo Bloxham. Strength For Life is strictly run off grants and donations. Donations are accepted on their website (strengthforlifeabilene.org), through check and venmo.

If you or someone you know is a cancer fighter/survivor and interested in joining the SFL program as a participant, there is a referral form on the website (strenghtforlifeabilene.org) or email strengthforlifeabilene@gmail.com.

We leave you with these final remarks from founder of “Strength for Life”, Stephanie Phelps: “God takes your hardest moments and turns it into something positive.”

“Strength for Life” has several fundraising opportunities throughout the year, but here are some options to be watching for this Spring 2023: