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Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Gail Buhler’s Story of Strength, Early Detection and Community
“Each day is a gift.”
That’s how Gail Buhler, owner of BODYBAR Pilates Littleton, describes what Breast Cancer Awareness Month means to her. Gail is a breast cancer survivor, a longtime Pilates devotee, and the first person to bring BODYBAR to her corner of Colorado. This October, we’re proud to share her story — and the message she hopes every woman hears: don’t skip your screenings.
A Diagnosis Caught Early
Gail signed her BODYBAR franchise agreement in December 2024. Weeks later, a routine yearly mammogram detected ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), Stage 0 breast cancer.
“My DCIS Stage 0 was detected early because I never skipped my yearly mammograms,” Gail says. “That early detection made all the difference.”
The months that followed asked a lot of her. Shortly after her diagnosis, Gail also lost her husband, her partner in researching Pilates franchises and in the dream of opening a studio. She underwent a mastectomy and reconstructive surgery, stepped into the parts of the business her husband had planned to lead, and kept moving toward opening day.
Back On The Reformer
Before her diagnosis, Gail took four to five Pilates classes a week. Returning to the Reformer 12 weeks after surgery was humbling.
“Planking felt almost impossible because you lose so much muscle in your arms,” she says. “But looking to my left and right on the Reformer and seeing women in their 70s doing Pilates inspired me. They reminded me that resilience is possible at any age and through any challenge.”
The experience changed how she sees every class. “Too often, we take our health for granted,” Gail says. “This experience has given me a greater appreciation for every workout, every step, and the incredible gift of simply being able to keep going.”
For Gail, Pilates starts with the mind. She comes to class first for mental clarity and the endorphins. “When faced with a diagnosis like breast cancer, being fit helps you feel prepared, not like you’re starting from zero. A strong body supports a strong mind.”
Gail’s Message: Be Your Own Advocate
Gail’s advice for every woman this month is simple:
• Don’t skip your screenings. Her cancer was found during a routine yearly mammogram.
• If something feels off, get it checked.
• Trust your gut. “If tests come back clear but your gut tells you otherwise, keep pushing. Fight for more testing.”
“Prioritizing your health year-round can truly save your life,” she says.
The experience also shaped how she leads. “Everyone is on their own journey. Some struggles are visible, while others are not,” Gail says. “Small acts of kindness, a genuine smile, and leading with love can make a lasting difference.”
Stronger Together
Gail opened BODYBAR Littleton with a deeper appreciation for the kind of community she wanted to create: a place where people feel supported, connected, and encouraged through every season of life.
“We want everyone who walks into our studio to feel welcomed, valued, and seen,” she says.
For Gail, survivorship is about more than simply getting through breast cancer. It is about growing through it — becoming stronger, more grateful, and more intentional about celebrating every win along the way.
That spirit of community comes to life on the third Sunday of every month at 1 p.m., when BODYBAR Pilates Littleton offers a free class for breast cancer survivors to celebrate their strength, their progress, and every win along the way. No membership is required, and survivors are welcome wherever they are in their journey.
“I love the community a Pilates studio creates,” Gail adds. “It’s a great place to make friends and spend time with those who have similar values and lifestyles as you do.”
That sense of connection reflects what BODYBAR is built around: showing up for one another, creating meaningful relationships, and helping people feel stronger inside and outside the studio.
This October, Honor Gail’s Story
• Book your screening, and remind someone you love to book theirs.
• Share this story with the women in your life.
• Show up for your community — in class and beyond.
To every survivor, every fighter, and every woman who shows up for herself: we see you, and we’re proud to be stronger with you.
For breast cancer screening recommendations and questions about your personal risk, talk with your healthcare provider.
