People

Melissa Ruiz

President, Board of Directors 

Melissa has been involved with Team Survivor since 2010. Through the organization, she was able to experiment with classes she would otherwise not be able to explore, and saw first-hand her fellow members attaining their goals with the support of Team Survivor instructors. 

She was further inspired by the founders’ commitment to bringing wellness and fitness to women who have experienced a cancer diagnosis, as well as by the longevity of the entirely volunteer-driven organization, which has been supporting women since 1995. She first joined the Board as Treasurer, and began serving as President in 2023. 

When not involved with Team Survivor, Melissa is a Patient Navigator with the Breast Cancer Resource Center. She loves spending time with her daughters and three grandbabies, and enjoys biking, swimming, and reading. 

Kaja Tretjak

Vice President, Board of Directors 

Kaja (rhymes with "Maya") is a recovering hater of exercise and all things fitness. 

After powering through two years of breast cancer treatment and recovery it was evident that she would greatly benefit from a more active lifestyle, both physically and mentally. Infamously reluctant to exercise before cancer despite knowing better, she also hadn’t engaged in any kind of exercise at all since her diagnosis. 

Getting started was intimidating, especially being out of shape alongside a congenital hand difference that makes using some types of workout equipment challenging. Through becoming a Team Survivor member, she connected with Mziya Weber of REIZ Adaptive Fitness who specializes in adaptive training. As of late 2024, they have been meeting all year for two workout sessions every week, ultimately joining the Team Survivor Board together. Kaja credits Team Survivor and Mziya’s tremendous support, energy, and skillset for a holistic transformation in her physical and emotional well-being. 

She also volunteers with the Breast Cancer Resource Center’s Speakers Bureau and is especially passionate about talking to younger women about the critical importance of early detection. 

Mziya Weber

Community Outreach Chair,
Board of Directors 

Mziya first became involved with Team Survivor as a community partner, providing one-on-one and group strength training sessions for survivors through her organization, REIZ Adaptive Fitness. REIZ is dedicated to promoting inclusivity and accessibility in the fitness community. 

Born with one arm, Mziya overcame numerous obstacles to pursue her passion for helping others adapt and overcome challenges. With a background in nonprofit work and a certification in Adaptive & Inclusive Fitness, she customizes workout programs to empower individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential. Passionate about promoting inclusivity and empowerment, Mziya finds joy in witnessing personal growth and strength in her clients. 

Read more about Mziya and her journey in Austin Voyage Magazine.