Most years, the Virginia Run Turkey Trot is dedicated to a community resident who’s died of cancer in the months preceding the race. But this year, it’s being held in honor of those affected by cancer.

One of them is Centreville’s Vanessa Spiller, who also works for Life with Cancer (LWC). The organization’s slate of offerings helps families mentally, psychologically and emotionally. It’s geared for those with cancer or impacted by it and helps children and teens learn how to cope and to show support for their loved ones.

In April 2011, Spiller was diagnosed with stage II breast cancer. A tumor in her breast had metastasized and, after doctors removed it, she underwent six months of chemo, followed by radiation. She finished treatment that November and is now doing fine. She runs and challenges herself in endurance events and also gives back to help others.

Below, Spiller explains what Life with Cancer does and why the money raised from the Virginia Run Turkey Trot is so important in helping the organization support the community.

Q: What do you do for Life with Cancer?

A: I’m a certified nutritionist and I conduct healthy cooking demonstrations in the Life with Cancer kitchen. Each one covers information about specific food groups that help combat disease, plus we get to eat good, tasty, fun and healthy food. My next one is Thursday, Dec. 4, at Life with Cancer, 8411 Pennell St. in Fairfax. It’s called ‘Healthy Indulgence: Let’s Have our Cake and Eat it, Too.’ Everyone is welcome and it’s free.

Q: How are you feeling?

A: I’m doing very well. It’s been 3.5 years since my diagnosis and I’m grateful. I, myself, continue to attend classes at Life with Cancer. It helps me a great deal; it’s terrific information, plus I’m able to continue the work I love in the field of wellness.

Q: How you feel about Turkey Trot's proceeds going to LWC?

A: Again, I’m grateful. It’s amazing that the Virginia Run Turkey Trot has supported Life with Cancer exclusively for so many years. It says a great deal about both entities. I’d like to thank the incredible sponsors and participants of the race – it’s one of the largest community events in the area.

Sponsoring companies and runners have a lot of choices as to where to put their money to support local efforts. And year after year, the participants and sponsors recognize the value and choose to support an organization like Life with Cancer. It has so much to offer people.

Q: What does LWC use the money for?

A: The proceeds funding Life with Cancer help provide what seems to be an endless means of support to individuals affected by the disease. There are numerous programs and classes supported by sponsors at Life with Cancer, including exercise classes (yoga), art classes, counseling, nutrition and dietary classes.

Life with Cancer is a welcoming place to land when you’ve experienced your world turning upside down from a cancer diagnosis. It’s a place to turn and feel hopeful. The staff and volunteers are professional and compassionate.