When Colleen Brummer, a STOTT PILATES® Certified Instructor, opened ENERGY Pilates in Grand Cayman 22 years ago, she had no idea that just two years later her life would change in unimaginable ways. After being diagnosed with breast cancer, movement became her lifeline.
Through treatment and recovery, Pilates helped her reconnect with her body, rebuild her strength, and restore her confidence. Through her practice, she found her way back to herself.
Out of this deeply personal experience, Colleen created Pilates for Pink, a breast cancer awareness event that combines movement, community, and hope. Her goal was simple yet powerful: to raise funds for the Cayman Islands Cancer Society while offering survivors, thrivers, and supporters a space to move together, feel supported, and know they are not alone.
The Healing Power of Pilates for Cancer Recovery
When asked about Pilates’ role in supporting individuals living with or recovering from cancer, Colleen’s shared her belief that Pilates offers a safe, empowering way to reconnect with the body during and after treatment. Its focus on controlled movement, breath, and alignment helps restore joint mobility, ease tension, and rebuild muscular support in a gentle and intentional way.
“It’s not just about getting strong again,” she explains. “It’s about rebuilding trust in your body, learning that it’s still capable, still resilient, and still yours.” Mindful movement helps ease anxiety and promotes a feeling of safety in the body, which can be profoundly healing after illness and treatment.
Why Pilates Supports Healing Beyond Medical Recovery
On the importance of giving people living with cancer access to both medical care and wellness practices, Colleen says that true healing goes beyond medical treatment.
“It’s not only about surviving cancer, but also about reclaiming joy, happiness, and wholeness. Pilates complements medical care by addressing the emotional and physical disconnect that so many people experience after treatment.”
Her STOTT PILATES education gave her the tools to make this kind of healing accessible. With its strong foundation in anatomy, biomechanics, and movement modification, Colleen safely guides clients through programs tailored to their needs and stages of recovery.
Building a Pilates Community of Strength & Support
Over the years, Pilates for Pink has evolved from a local fitness event into a movement of compassion, strength, and community. Each year, hundreds gather to move, support, and celebrate. Survivors call it one of the most joyful days of their year, while participants who have never faced cancer say they leave feeling deeply moved by the collective energy in the room.
Colleen hopes to see more healthcare providers recognize the power of mindful movement in recovery.
“Make Pilates accessible,” she urges. “When guided by a knowledgeable, trauma-informed instructor, it can be life-changing. Everyone deserves to feel strong and whole again.”
What began as one woman’s personal journey through illness has become a beacon of strength for an entire community.