Ellie's Story: Finding Community in an Exercise Classes

When Elizabeth “Ellie” Flores first moved to Greenwich, she enjoyed taking walks in Bruce Park, but it was not until her husband suggested she join the YMCA of Greenwich that she truly found her fitness home. “From the moment I started, everyone was so kind, and I really enjoyed all the programs they offered,” Ellie says.

Mornings at the Y have become an almost daily ritual for Ellie, starting as early as 5 a.m. and often lasting until 11 a.m. “Every single program is excellent. They’re fun, tiring, but fun, and the community is great!” she says. She frequently takes Group Exercise (X) classes in cardio, dance, and yoga.

Membership at the YMCA of Greenwich gives access to more than 50 adult Group X classes per week, designed for all fitness levels and lifestyles. Each class offers participants the chance to grow stronger physically, mentally, and socially. Beyond individual health, they create a space for people to connect, form friendships, and build community.

Over the years, Ellie has found lasting friendship in the Zumba class led by Kellz Ortega. The group celebrates holidays together, sharing dishes from their cultures and enjoying lively conversations in the Member Lounge. “We love to have a good time,” Ellie says. “We just spend time talking in a happy, welcoming atmosphere.”

As a breast cancer survivor, Ellie participated in a past Y event to honor the survivors of all kinds of cancer. When the community learned of her journey, they rallied around her in support. Many admired her positive attitude, dedication to working out, and taking as many Group X classes as she could at the YMCA of Greenwich.

February is National Cancer Prevention Month. The National Cancer Institute estimates that 2 million people in the United States were diagnosed with cancer other than nonmelanoma skin cancer in 2025, and 40 percent of those cases were linked to lifestyle choices. By prioritizing health today, individuals can help protect their future.

LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA is a free, evidence-based 12-week program that supports individuals living with, through, or beyond a cancer diagnosis. Research from the Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven Health and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute shows that participants in the LIVESTRONG® at the YMCA program experience improved quality of life and a significant decrease in cancer-related fatigue.

Sessions last 75 minutes and are held twice a week, led by certified fitness instructors trained in cancer survivorship, post-rehabilitation exercise, and supportive cancer care. Participants also have full access to YMCA of Greenwich facilities for the duration of the program.

There is no place like this place. The Y is a movement that helps bring people together, to lift each other up, learn from one another, and find the strength they might not have known they had. From members to volunteers to staff, the YMCA of Greenwich helps everyone find purpose and contribute to something meaningful, continuing the cycle of care and growth that makes the Y so special.