10/24/2025
Michael’s nickname was “Strong Boy” long before the PRs and podiums. After three brain-stem tumors, 200+ procedures, and more hospital nights than anyone should face, it was easy for the world to tell him what he couldn’t do. But a body that once refused to move is now crossing finish lines and lifting more than its weight - with his dad Jon fighting and cheering for him every step of the way.
At their lowest points, neither of them knew the other was wondering if it was still worth it to keep going. But somewhere between the hospital walls and the gym floor, they began living for each other. What started as workouts became something much deeper: a promise to keep showing up, side by side, no matter what the next day brings.
When they first walked through the doors of Anytime Fitness Gig Harbor, it wasn’t about chasing numbers. It was about finding somewhere that felt safe again - a place to heal, to rebuild rhythm and faith, surrounded by people who believed in them as much as they believed in each other. Through the coaches, the community, the everyday encouragers, they became part of the family. Together, they’ve turned pain into purpose, and strength into something greater: hope that keeps showing up.
Jon & Michael, your story reminds us that love is the greatest kind of endurance - and your AF family is running right beside you. 💜
