Warrior Workouts by Jen

A few behind the scenes images. I can’t wait to see the final reel in October. Suffolk Plastic Surgeons

I decided to take my bar out to the pool. I definitely prefer this setting over my basement gym. Jennifer VanName Trettner

This morning, two strong breast cancer warriors took a 4-mile walk around Greenport | North Fork

As we walked, we shared our stories, supported one another, laughed, reflected, and reminded each other that healing isn’t something we have to do alone.

Choosing movement after a breast cancer diagnosis is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. Every step helps build strength, supports recovery, and reminds us of just how resilient we are.

I’m grateful for friendships that understand this journey in a way few others can. Today wasn’t just about four miles—it was about connection, encouragement, and choosing to keep moving forward together. 💗

HealingTogether

There’s something about barre that just makes me smile.

I love all kinds of workouts, but if I’m being honest, barre is my favorite. Back in 2018 or 2019, I discovered Elise Joan’s Barre Blend program (then through Beachbody, now BODi), and I immediately fell in love with it.

Today I hit play on my second barre workout of the week, and I found myself smiling through most of it. Don’t let the graceful movements fool you—this workout is challenging! I even had to pause a few times to stretch out my hips when they started cramping.

The entire workout uses your own body weight along with just 1-pound dumbbells. It may not sound like much, but those small, repetitive movements create an incredible burn and deliver a true full-body workout.

As a breast cancer survivor, exercise has become so much more than a way to stay fit. It has helped me rebuild strength after surgery, improve my bone health, increase my energy, reduce treatment-related fatigue, improve my balance and mobility, and boost my confidence. Just as importantly, regular exercise has been shown to help lower the risk of cancer recurrence for many survivors and improve overall quality of life.

Every workout doesn’t have to be about lifting heavier or pushing harder. Sometimes it’s about honoring your body, celebrating what it can do, and finding joy in movement.

Today, barre reminded me of that. 💗

Have you ever tried a barre workout? I’d love to hear what your favorite way to move is!

As per the University of Rochester Medicine:

🩷 Research from Wilmot Cancer Institute suggests exercise can help reduce side effects such as chemo brain, fatigue, anxiety, and sleep problems.

🩷 Physical activity before, during, and after treatment may improve quality of life for some cancer patients and survivors.

🩷 National guidelines now recommend exercise as part of managing cancer-related fatigue.

🩷 Researchers continue to study how movement affects the brain and body during cancer treatment.

Patients should talk with their care team before starting a new exercise program during treatment.

Exercise doesn’t need to be hard. Moves can be modified to fit your needs and to meet your body where it is at.

Today is Cancer Survivors Day.

It’s been 1,629 days since I heard the words, “You have cancer.” 1,629 days since my world was turned upside down.

And here I am, 1,629 days later.

Cancer taught me that I am stronger than I ever imagined. It taught me resilience. It taught me that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. It taught me that I don’t have to do it all, that it’s okay to say no, and that walking away from toxic people can be an act of self-preservation.

Most importantly, it taught me to appreciate each day as a gift. I wake up every morning grateful to God for another day and another opportunity to make a difference. I strive to help other women facing their own battles and to remind them that they are never alone.

As overwhelming and difficult as this journey has been, I am grateful for the lessons cancer taught me. It gave me a new lease on life, a deeper appreciation for the small things, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Today, I celebrate survival, gratitude, faith, and the incredible gift of being here.

Breast cancer taught me so much.

It taught me to focus on NOW and do my best not to worry about tomorrow. It taught me to celebrate the small victories, take a deep breath, walk away from toxic relationships, be kind, pray often, and begin each morning in a happy place.

Today, my happy place was my garden. Sitting among the flowers, looking up at the beautiful blue sky, listening to the birds sing, and thanking God for another day.

Life isn’t always easy, but it is precious. And sometimes the greatest blessings are found in the simplest moments. 💙🙏🌿

I am incredibly honored and humbled to share that my plastic surgeon, Dr. Kneessy of Suffolk Plastic Surgeons, called today with the amazing news that I have been selected as a 2026 Patients of Courage honoree!

Thank you, Dr. Kneessy, for nominating me, and thank you to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons for choosing me for this incredible honor.

The event will take place this fall in Houston during their annual conference, where plastic surgeons from all over the world will gather.

I am truly grateful to be able to share my journey, represent survivors everywhere, and hopefully inspire others walking their own path with courage and faith. 💗