iFIT Member Highlight: Sylvia Rodriguez

For Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we’re sharing a very special member story that we know will resonate with many in the iFIT family. Meet Sylvia Rodriguez, an iFIT member who was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier in 2021. Knowing what physical and mental challenges lie ahead for her, Sylvia made it her mission to not let cancer define her. 

While battling through rounds of chemotherapy, Sylvia stuck to her goal of staying active and pushed through our recent Summer Camp Challenge. Sylvia graciously shared her story with us, touching on her diagnosis, who inspires her, the importance of the iFIT community, and her plans after beating cancer.

When were you diagnosed?

On May 12, 2021, I was diagnosed with Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, which is a very common breast cancer.

How was the cancer initially detected?

I had originally gone in for an ultrasound mammogram for a lump that was causing me pain. That same day, my doctor squeezed me in for an emergency biopsy, as she was concerned about an abnormality she saw in my mammogram.

What helped you get through the diagnosis and treatment thus far?

I’ve been able to cope with my diagnosis because of the amazing support team I have and by making sure I stay physically active, even on the days where I feel like I just can’t push through. Knowing that I’m so close to being done with treatment makes me very happy. 

How are you doing now?

For the time being and after getting this far, I’m doing really well. I feel good physically and mentally. 

Despite chemotherapy and other challenges, you continue to exercise. Where do you draw inspiration from to stay active during this time?

My children. Knowing that cancer was about to change my physical appearance, I needed them to see something positive come out of it. Maintaining my workout routine became a more significant motivation. 

You’re an active member of the Official iFIT Member Page on Facebook. What does the iFIT community mean to you?

There are truly no words to express my gratitude to the iFIT community. They have become my second family. Seeing all their accomplishments makes me very happy to be able to cheer them on. They are a community of great support, love, and blessings all in one place!

From the time you joined iFIT to now, how have your goals changed? What does your fitness journey look like moving forward?

My goal back then was to get into running and start trying to do marathons. Now, a lot has temporarily changed. Once I’ve overcome this hurdle, I plan to continue with my original goal with a little more sightseeing adventures.

What would you say to others who are in similar situations?

What I’ve learned that I wish I knew before is that it’s very important that you get your annual check-ups. If at any point you are concerned with a lump, no matter how small it may be, get it checked. If you have pain in your breast and you’re unsure why, go get it checked. Cancer hurts, and no, you are not too young to have it.  If you're a male and have concerns, please get checked as well. Men also have a risk of getting breast cancer.

If you feel that you're not taken seriously, seek out a second opinion. Make sure you voice your concerns and stand up for yourself. There are so many things I wish I had known. If I was not so dismissive of my breast pain, maybe it could have been avoided or caught sooner. I pray that my journey helps someone, which is my main reason for being so open about it and sharing it as much as I can. Thank you for allowing me to do so through this amazing community. 

Who is your favorite iFIT Trainer?

This one's easy—Tommy Rivs Puzey! 

What is your favorite iFIT series?

None other than my first workout series—the Iberian Beginner Running Series!

What do you like most about iFIT?

What is there not to love about iFIT? If I must say, it’s the trainers. They all project nothing but genuine knowledge and inspiration during each workout. The fact that they believe in you before you believe in yourself says a lot. I’m truly grateful! 

Disclaimer: This blog post is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. The above information should not be used to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or medical condition. Please consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. iFIT assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article. Always follow the safety precautions included in the owner’s manual of your fitness equipment.

Opinions of iFIT members are not necessarily the opinions of iFIT.