Meet Your Trainer and Founder of Making Strydz

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My Story:

I’m Melissa—military veteran, lung cancer survivor, and lifelong advocate for strength through struggle. I created Making Strydz after a life-altering diagnosis that redefined how I view health, healing, and resilience.

My fitness journey began in 2005, fueled by a passion for movement and helping others. But in 2019, strange symptoms began to surface—ones that doctors repeatedly dismissed due to my age and active lifestyle. A year later, I was diagnosed with lung cancer. In November 2021, I had one lung removed.

Recovery was hard. I lost strength, mobility, and confidence—but gained perspective, grit, and purpose. I realized that many people—whether recovering from surgery, adjusting to motherhood, or navigating the physical and emotional changes of midlife—don’t have the roadmap to rebuild. That’s why I started Making Strydz: to guide others toward lasting strength and wellness, one step at a time.

Today, I fuse my personal journey with professional expertise to coach individuals through life’s toughest transitions. You don’t need perfection or motivation to start—you just need a plan, support, and someone who truly understands the journey.

My Approach:

My coaching is rooted in empathy, education, and evidence-based strength training.  I meet you where you are - then build with you from there.

Who I Help:

• Veterans - Transition from military life to sustainable, civilian-friendly fitness routines that honor your body and experience.
• Cancer Survivors - Reclaim control of your health in a trauma-informed environment with guidance from someone who's been through it.
• New Moms & Expecting Parents - Safely rebuild core strength, support recovery, and regain energy through every stage of the journey
• Midlife Adults - Navigate aging and strength, stability, and purpose.  Build a foundation that supports your next chapter with power and resilience.