What We Learned From “Unbroken for Whitney”: The Power of CrossFit Community

On Sunday, July 13, a group of Breathe CrossFit members participated in a special charity event at CrossFit Epping called Unbroken for Whitney. Whitney, one of their own, is currently battling cancer—and the CrossFit Epping community organized a powerful, well-executed event to support him through this challenging time. By the end of the day, nearly $26,000 had been raised through donations, raffles, and event participation.

CrossFit is often associated with fitness, but what truly sets it apart is its community. Unlike traditional gyms, where people may put in earbuds and keep to themselves, CrossFit gyms cultivate friendship, accountability, and connection. When one member is struggling, others step up—because that’s what being on a team means.

The event itself was fun, fast-paced, and full of heart. It featured a two-part team workout:

• 6 minutes to build to a 1-rep max clean & jerk
• Followed by a 3-person relay: each person completing 20 clean & jerks for time

Each team aimed to raise at least $300, with all proceeds going toward Whitney’s treatment and associated expenses. Beyond the workout, there were raffles, cookout food, cornhole, and even a dunk tank—all helping turn a difficult situation into a day of unity, joy, and purpose.

Nine Breathe CrossFit members showed up to sweat for the cause, while others donated to support the mission. Events like this remind us that we’re not just lifting barbells—we’re lifting each other.

One thing that really stuck with me was something the owner of CrossFit Epping shared before Whitney gave his speech. Whitney had initially felt unsure about having an event in his honor, but the owner encouraged him to let people help. That message is powerful. Sometimes, letting others support you helps them too. It gives people a purpose, and it deepens the sense of community.

If you’ve ever faced hardship and felt hesitant to ask for help, remember this: people want to show up for you. Give them that chance.

To Whitney, his family, and the entire CrossFit Epping team—thank you for the reminder of what CrossFit truly stands for. You inspired all of us at Breathe.

If you’d like to contribute, Whitney’s GoFundMe link, click here. If you’d like to listen to our podcast where we publish weekly content, click here.