Hope Restored: How Anne Reclaimed Her Life Without Surgery

When Anne Tunstill walked into PowerStrength Holland in late 2024, she was at a crossroads — physically, emotionally, and mentally. 

For more than two decades, she had battled the lingering effects of a car accident that damaged her knee and ankle. She was told a knee replacement was inevitable — but first, she had to lose weight to even be eligible. The problem? Her pain was so intense that she couldn’t move enough to exercise.

“I was done,” Anne said. “I felt like I was on episode 1 of My 600-Pound Life. I was just going to keep gaining weight because I couldn’t exercise. My knee was giving me so many problems.”

Anne had tried big-box gyms. She had tried physical therapy. Nothing worked. She felt stuck, unsure of how to get out of a cycle that was slowly draining her energy and hope.

“I was in a lot of pain walking. How was I supposed to get on a treadmill or go back to the gym? I needed help.”

THE TURNING POINT

That help came when Anne discovered PowerStrength’s Personal Training Program for adults in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. The personalized coaching, small group atmosphere, and deep understanding of each member’s individual needs were exactly what she had been searching for.

“I came here, and it completely blew my mind — the focus on strengthening my knee and working on the areas I needed to get stronger so I could exercise, and live my life,” Anne said.

Just a month and a half into the program, she began to notice dramatic results.

“My husband said, ‘Whatever it’s costing you, it’s worth every penny.’ He was so thrilled — and so was I. It didn’t take very long.”

LIFE CHANGING RESULTS

Six months later, Anne’s transformation is remarkable. She no longer fears stairs, and she is back to doing the things she loves — without pain. 

Most significantly, she has decided to postpone the knee replacement indefinitely because she simply doesn’t need it right now.

“We feel like we can put it off. My knee is stronger. During spring break this year, I actually walked the beach. I didn’t do that the year before,” she said. “I just spent a few hours raking yesterday — and it didn’t hurt my knee like it used to.”

Her results go beyond the physical. Anne has gained over a pound of muscle, improved her energy, and — most importantly — reclaimed her sense of self.

“I feel like it’s been a lifesaver for me,” Anne said. “To get me back on track with my life again. To give me control over something in my life again.”

She credits the expert coaching and positive atmosphere at PowerStrength Holland.

“I love the small group. I love that it’s not crowded. Everybody’s so positive. So wonderful,” she said. “They know your limits and how to push you just right. It’s like one-on-one attention.”

A NEW OUTLOOK

Now 48, Anne is feeling stronger, more capable, and more motivated than she has in years. She says her time at PowerStrength is giving her more life — and a better quality of life.

“It affects my mood. It affects everything. And everybody in my house is happier because I’m happier,” she said. “It’s given me hope for my future again. I’m 48 years old, they’re giving me extra time in my life and the quality of my life.”

She’s also learned valuable lessons about nutrition, hydration, and strength training. And she has a message for other moms and busy adults who may be putting themselves last.

“Prioritize yourself,” Anne said. “Looking back, I wish I would have — because when I let myself go, I was really letting my husband and the kids go too. Everything as the mom affects the whole house.”

Anne’s story is one of strength, perseverance, and a future reclaimed — and PowerStrength is proud to be part of her incredible journey.

READY TO TAKE CONTROL?

Men and Women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s who want to get stronger and have more energy can join the Personal Training Program at PowerStrength at any time. No previous workout experience is required as each program is customized to the fitness and ability level of each individual.

Multiple personal training sessions are offered in the early morning, mid-morning, late afternoon, and evening. Find your nearest PowerStrength location – Alpine, Kentwood, Jenison, Plainfield, and Holland.

Click HERE to learn more program details and schedule your risk-free consultation.