When Steve Wolley retired in December 2023, he envisioned spending his days tackling the projects and adventures he had been putting off for years. Instead, just a few months later, life took an unexpected turn.
During a routine annual physical in April 2024, blood work revealed significant changes that led to a devastating diagnosis: liver cancer.
What followed was a journey that tested Steve’s strength, patience, and determination.
His first liver tumor was surgically removed on August 5, 2024. When a second tumor was discovered, he underwent radiation treatment on September 26, 2025. Then, on May 18, 2026, Steve received the gift of a liver transplant, marking the beginning of a new chapter.
While each procedure represented hope, the recovery was anything but easy.
“Each time I went in for a procedure, I was thrown into a total physical shutdown,” Steve said. “Afterward, I had to spend several months trying to recover.”
For someone who looked forward to an active retirement, those setbacks were frustrating. But Steve refused to let them define his future.
Following his first procedures, Zac at Valor Elite helped him regain strength and rebuild confidence. Now, as he recovers from his transplant, Steve has returned once again, beginning with light spinning and gentle movements as his body continues to heal.
“Zac and Tim have been super about giving me positive feedback and suggestions,” Steve shared. “I’m looking forward to being able to start getting after training again in a couple of weeks.”
Recovery from a liver transplant isn’t measured in days. It’s measured in perseverance. Every week brings a little more strength, a little more energy, and another step toward normal life.
“There have been some pretty rough months lately,” Steve admits. “But each week after surgery I feel a little better. I’m waiting, not so patiently, to get back after it so I can move on to a physically fit life again.”
Steve’s story is a reminder that fitness looks different for everyone. Sometimes it’s lifting heavier weights or reaching a new personal best. Other times, it’s celebrating the ability to pedal a bike for a few minutes longer than the week before.
At Valor Elite, we believe every victory deserves to be celebrated. Watching members like Steve return after life’s greatest challenges is what inspires us every day.
Steve, we’re honored to be part of your recovery. We can’t wait to see what the next chapter holds as you continue to regain your strength, one workout at a time.