This article appears in the Fall 2025 issue of the FCA Donor Publication. The FCA publication is a gift from our FCA staff to all donors giving $50 or more annually. For more information about giving, visit here.
Everything changed for Dr. Nancy Meyer in high school when her mother was diagnosed with malignant melanoma. Her family started going to church more regularly, and Meyer gave her life to Christ. She has since pursued a life of wellness physically, mentally and spiritually. She first connected with FCA 30 years ago as a guest speaker for a high school Huddle and was introduced to FCA Endurance in 2016.
An Ironman triathlete, Meyer lives in Roanoke, Va., serves on the FCA Endurance Board, and is a donor and volunteer. FCA has influenced her and encouraged her faith and ministry as she launched Total Wellness University, an online coaching ministry designed to help others pursue true, holistic wellness—mentally, spiritually and physically. In 2023, she also published her book Defying Fear: Finding the Courage to Embrace Your True Value (Brookstone).
How has being involved in FCA impacted your faith?
I longed to be surrounded by people who not only value physical health but also understand that the most important thing in life is knowing Jesus—and using our fitness as a platform to witness and worship. FCA has been a part of my spiritual journey in so many ways. The people, the Bible studies, the encouragement—all of it helped shape who I am today.
FCA Endurance (FCAE) has helped me stay grounded—not just in my training, but also in my walk with God. I’ll never forget climbing the four-mile mountain during the Virginia Blue Ridge Half Ironman with almost 4,000 feet of elevation and seeing a verse posted along the path by FCAE: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13). That gave me the strength I needed to keep going.
What has FCA meant to you?
FCA has been a place of belonging for me. It reminds me of what’s truly important: our relationship with Christ. Being surrounded by like-minded, Christ-loving people makes such a difference. It’s like having a faith-filled posse that always has your back.
What I love is that FCA isn’t just for student-athletes. Traditionally, it has served high school and college athletes, but through FCA Endurance, adults can experience that same sense of belonging, support and spiritual growth.
What has it meant for you to be a board member?
Serving on the FCA Board has given me the opportunity to pour into something that truly matters—helping people grow in their relationship with Christ and live out their faith boldly. It’s funny how you can’t out give God. Every time you pour out, He fills you right back up—and then some.
What has God been teaching you in this season?
God is teaching me to be bold and not afraid. Fear has been a big part of my story—and I know I’m not alone in that. Fear can disguise itself as worry, doubt, insecurity or in action. But God is showing me that courage is a choice, and He’s calling me to continue to step forward in faith. FCA has helped me become who God created me to be, and the exciting part is, I know He’s not finished yet.
What would you say to someone considering serving with FCA?
Don’t wait until you feel ready—just step up and serve the Lord. FCA is such a beautiful place to do that. Whether you’re an athlete, a coach or just someone trying to honor God through your fitness, FCA has a place for you. FCA truly lives out its mission—to lead every coach and athlete into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ and His church.
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Photos courtesy of Nancy Meyer