Finding Strength in Community: Vanessa's Story

When Vanessa Trutt first walked into the YMCA of Greenwich, she wasn’t looking for a fitness program. She was looking for steadiness—something to help her feel strong and supported while navigating one of the most difficult chapters of her life.

Vanessa had recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. Like many people facing a life-changing diagnosis, she was searching for ways to stay physically strong, but also emotionally grounded. That search led her to an unexpected connection—and ultimately, to a community that would change her experience entirely.

An Unexpected Introduction

Vanessa first met Dave Graves, a trainer at the YMCA of Greenwich, while attending another program at the Y. She remembers being immediately drawn to his warmth and encouragement.

“I shared with him that I had been diagnosed with breast cancer,” Vanessa recalled. “He told me about the LIVESTRONG program and encouraged me to join.”

That moment—simple, human, and supportive—was the turning point.

Strength Through Treatment

What surprised Vanessa most about the program wasn’t just the physical impact, though that was significant. Even while undergoing chemotherapy, she was able to maintain her strength and continue moving her body in a way that felt safe and empowering.

“My doctors told me how important it is to stay active,” she said. “They shared that people who work out have a reduced risk of issues redeveloping. That motivation stayed with me throughout the program.”

But the workouts were only part of the story.

A Community That Truly Understands

What Vanessa didn’t expect was the depth of connection she would find.

“Not only was I able to retain my strength, but the relationships I developed—with the other participants and the trainers—were incredibly meaningful,” she said. “It was a real community that I looked forward to coming to twice a week.”

That sense of community extended far beyond the gym floor. Participants encouraged one another through treatment milestones, hard days, and small victories. One friendship, in particular, became deeply personal.

“I became close with another participant, and after I lost most of my hair during chemo, he cut my hair for me,” Vanessa shared. “We still stay in touch. He’s a very good friend.”

Moments like these are hard to quantify—but they’re at the heart of what makes programs like this so impactful.

More Than a Program

When asked to describe her experience in one or two words, Vanessa didn’t hesitate.

“Uplifting.”

She credits the program not just for helping her stay physically strong, but for keeping her spirits high during a time filled with uncertainty.

“LIVESTRONG not only helped me stay physically strong throughout my treatment but also surrounded me with people who truly understood what it feels like to receive a life-changing diagnosis,” Vanessa said. “What began as a way to stay strong during treatment became so much more—a source of healing, friendship, and hope.”

Why Stories Like Vanessa’s Matter

Programs like this are offered at no cost to participants, removing barriers at a time when energy, finances, and emotional bandwidth may already be stretched thin. But more importantly, they create spaces where people feel seen, supported, and understood.

For Vanessa, the YMCA of Greenwich became more than a place to work out—it became a place of belonging. As new sessions begin, the Y continues its commitment to supporting individuals through movement, connection, and community—just as it did for Vanessa.

Programs like this are only possible because of donor support. If you would like to help make LIVESTRONG at the YMCA accessible for more cancer survivors in our community, please consider making a gift in support of this life-saving program: greenwichymca.org/give/annual

If you or someone you know could benefit from this kind of support, we invite you to learn more, sign up, or share this opportunity with someone who may need it. Learn more at: https://greenwichymca.org/programs/wellness/livestrong