ST. GEORGE, Utah – Arthur Johnson, a Marine Corps veteran who served from 1986 to 1998 and lost his leg due to a training injury exacerbated by diabetes, is speaking out after facing difficulties while trying to cancel his membership at Summit Athletic Club.
Johnson, who has been an avid gym-goer even after receiving a prosthetic leg in 2023, encountered multiple obstacles during the cancellation process. Despite providing the gym with the medical documentation requested by his doctor, he said the gym added several fees and miscommunication only made matters worse.
“I love the gym. It’s not just about building muscle, it’s about staying healthy,” Johnson explained. He had spent over two decades battling leg complications before undergoing amputation surgery two years ago, which gave him a renewed sense of life. However, with new complications arising in his other leg, his doctor advised him to stop attending a public gym for fear of further injury or infection.
When Johnson called Summit Athletic Club to explain his situation, he was told he needed to pay a $49 cancellation fee along with a doctor’s note. He complied, but soon discovered he would also be charged for an additional month of membership, which had not been mentioned initially.
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“This isn’t how you treat someone with a medical condition,” Johnson expressed. “I understand the need for a cancellation fee – it’s business. But charging me for an extra month is unfair, especially when I’ve provided doctor’s documentation.”
He also voiced frustration as a veteran, expecting more understanding in these situations. “As a veteran, I thought there would be more compassion. If a doctor says it’s a medical issue, the gym should waive those fees right away.”
Joe Levine, CEO of Summit Athletic Club, responded to the criticism, admitting the miscommunication and reaffirming the company’s commitment to customer service. “We understand that disabilities or illnesses can arise, and we aim to handle these situations with empathy,” Levine said. “Members facing such challenges are encouraged to contact us directly for solutions like membership freezes or cancellations based on our policies.”
Levine also acknowledged the club’s appreciation for veterans, noting that Summit Athletic Club offers programs such as discounts and personalized training for service members. “Veterans are always welcome to inquire about the benefits and resources we offer.”
For Johnson, this issue extends beyond his own experience. “Gyms should have policies in place to accommodate those with medical conditions or veterans who need to cancel their memberships,” he said. “It’s about giving back to those who served and sacrificed for our freedom.”
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Despite his frustrations, Johnson emphasized that he holds no ill will towards Summit Athletic Club itself. “It’s a great gym, with excellent facilities. But changes need to be made, not just at Summit, but across all gyms. This is about making sure others don’t face the same struggles.”
Now focused on volunteer work with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Johnson plans to continue advocating for better support systems for veterans and individuals with medical challenges. Summit Athletic Club officials have expressed regret over the way Johnson’s cancellation was handled and emphasized their commitment to addressing such concerns moving forward
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