The University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth has announced that its ForeverFitprogram, which began as the HSC branch of FitStepsfor Life in 2019, will conclude operations on April 18, 2025, due to a loss of funding.
ForeverFit was established to provide cancer patients and survivors with free, individualized exercise therapy, evolving from its original roots in the statewide FitSteps for Life initiative. Over the past six years, the program delivered more than 7,500 tailored exercise sessions and became a vital support system for hundreds of individuals rebuilding strength and confidence during or after cancer treatment.
“While we’re deeply saddened to close the program, we are proud of the impact it has made,” said Dr. Misti Zablosky, chair and associate professor in the Department of Personalized Health and Well-Being and director of ForeverFit.
To support participants’ ongoing health journeys, UNTHSC is offering all current ForeverFit members a complimentary one-year membership to the HSC Fitness Center. This offer includes access to exercise equipment and facilities for unsupervised workouts butdoes not include trainer-led or staff-supported sessions. Participants must opt into the membership within 30 days.
“This gesture reflects our gratitude and commitment to continued wellness,” Zablosky said. “We want our participants to have the tools to stay active even after the program ends.”
ForeverFit’s closure follows years of growth, innovation and community support. The program introduced aquatic fitness options, explored new exercise modalities, and provided a welcoming environment for cancer patients and survivors to regain physical and emotional strength. It operated thanks to generous backing from the Rutledge Cancer Foundation, the UNT Health Science Center Foundation and other local supporters.
In letters to patients, healthcare providers and staff, Zablosky emphasized that the decision to end ForeverFit was driven solely by funding limitations —not a reflection of the program’s quality or effectiveness.
“We are grateful to the dedicated staff and the referring providers who made ForeverFit what it was,” she said. “And most importantly, we are thankful to the patients who trusted us to be part of their recovery.”
While ForeverFit is concluding, the HSC Fitness Center and other community resources remain available to support physical activity and long-term survivorship care.
“We know movement is medicine,” Zablosky added. “Our hope is that the spirit of ForeverFit continues in every step, stretch and stride our participants take in their next chapter.”