Meet Vanessa, a cancer survivor, wellness coach, and founder of MASK Personal Training. With a powerful blend of lived experience and professional expertise, Vanessa is on a mission to support individuals—especially women—on their cancer journeys. From holistic healing to specialized exercise coaching, she’s created a supportive, nurturing space that empowers others to reclaim their strength and identity post-diagnosis. Featured on Humans of Fuzia for her strength, compassion, and commitment to transformation, Vanessa’s story inspires our 5-million-strong community to embrace healing, resilience, and purpose. At Humans of Fuzia, we believe in “He for She” and “She for She”—Vanessa lives that every day through her work and story.
Can you tell us about your journey with cancer and how it led you to your current work?
In January 2023, I was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer, just three months after I lost my mother. I remember telling my husband right after the diagnosis, “Just think how many women I can help when I get to the end of this.” That moment shifted everything. We first went for a holistic approach—juicing, sauna blankets, nature walks, meditation—and later added chemotherapy. Throughout, I continued holistic practices and felt physically strong. The medical team was amazed at how well I looked despite treatment. That’s when I realized I had to share this knowledge and support others going through the same.
What was the turning point in understanding your diagnosis on a deeper level?
We became DNA Life practitioners. When my DNA test results came back, they revealed I couldn’t metabolize estrogen—a direct link to my breast cancer. That knowledge was powerful. It gave me clarity and control, and now I use it to help others understand their bodies better, prevent illness, and make informed lifestyle changes.
What is MASK Personal Training and how does it help people?
MASK Personal Training is the platform my husband and I created to support people on their cancer journey—from diagnosis to beyond. We’re certified Cancer Exercise Specialists, holistic lifestyle coaches, and Reiki practitioners. We help people regain strength, energy, and purpose through personalized training, nutrition guidance, mindset work, and DNA-based recommendations. Our goal is to help people thrive—not just survive—through and after cancer.
What digital platforms are you currently using to spread awareness and support others?
We have a website—MASK Personal Training—and we’re building dedicated sections for women’s and men’s wellness with cancer. We’re also on Facebook and Instagram under Women’s Wellness with Cancer. A LinkedIn page is in the works too. We’re constantly sharing bite-sized information, videos, and personal updates so people feel supported and less overwhelmed in their journey.
Managing such a mission must require a lot of time and energy. How do you balance it all?
It’s all about ring-fencing my time—a term a client once taught me. I block out specific moments just for me, and those are non-negotiable. Social media can be exhausting, so I set time limits. I’ve learned to say “no” without apology. It’s not about doing everything; it’s about doing what matters when I have the energy. You have to put your mask on first—just like in an airplane—before helping others.
What are your goals for the next 6 months to a year?
Personally, I want to get even stronger—I’m aiming for a 110–120 kg deadlift and to get back to two-finger pull-ups! Professionally, I want to build an army of women—cancer thrivers—who can still be mums, leaders, lovers, and go-getters. I want to help them reclaim their bodies and confidence, and support them in standing strong for their families and for themselves.
What challenges have you faced in your business journey and how do you deal with them?
Earlier, I would stress about not being able to do everything. Now, I’ve learned to pause and ask for help. Stress doesn’t serve me. I focus on what I can do and let go of what I can’t—without guilt. Listening to my intuition and preserving my energy have become non-negotiable practices.
What is one message you’d like to share with other women reading your story?
Put your mask on first. Whether it’s an extra moment in the shower or just sitting in silence, give to yourself first. You wear many hats, but you can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritize yourself without guilt—it will help you show up better for everyone else in your life.
“You have to give to yourself first,” Vanessa reminds us. Her journey is a beautiful blend of courage, self-love, and the power of giving back. She proves that even in the face of adversity, it’s possible to emerge stronger, bolder, and full of purpose.
Connect with Vanessa:
Website: MASK Personal Training
Instagram: @womenswellnesswithcancer
Facebook: Women’s Wellness with Cancer
Want to be featured?
If you’d like to be featured in the Humans of Fuzia series, email us at fuziatalent@fuzia.com.
