YA Summer Retreat: A Weekend We Hold in Our Hearts
December 16, 2014
By: Julie Szasz
Last summer was my first young adult cancer retreat. Oh, what a treat! It was organized in collaboration by Cedars CanSupport, Hope & Cope and VOBOC. Having no expectations other than to relax, I had no idea how much it was going to change my life. This new life with cancer is sometimes lonely. Family and friends are a true blessing when you are going through a tough time, but to be surrounded by people similar to you is extremely significant.
When I was first invited to join the retreat, it made me feel special. I thought: “Wow, I am invited to a weekend where everything will be taken care of.” In my daily life, I have to plan everything. Now I get to be cared for for a few days. No cooking, no cleaning, no kids; yes I will go!
It is intimidating at first to find yourself with a group of strangers, especially knowing you’ll be spending a whole weekend with them. But very quickly you realize that they are not strangers. There is already a bond. No taboos, no judgment. It felt right. It felt good.
It’s overwhelming to see a group of 30 adults who are going through the same experience as you. But at the same time it’s comforting. And slowly you get to know each other, without any superficiality. Listening, talking, laughing, crying; there is an underlining of hope and love. You feel understood. Reality with an illness is different, but at the same time you meet inspiring people who make you realize it is still possible to enjoy life.
Ties and bonds are created and carry on beyond the retreat, and I think that makes a huge difference in our lives. To spend 48 hours with the same people allows us to be completely ourselves and friendships can develop. It’s amazing to know that we can count on someone who can understand our daily life and concerns. More importantly, it gives us a sense of belonging when otherwise we feel we don’t fit in anywhere anymore.
The organizers did such an amazing job at planning activities and workshops. You realize that there are people working to help us live better. I would like to say thank you to them for taking that time and energy in putting together a weekend just for us.
Life changes with cancer. Changes can be good. And I’ve discovered a loving and wonderful community that helps me on a daily basis. We had a special activity at the end of the retreat that involved writing each other notes on cards. Well, I have these cards handy, and on the days when I feel low I pull them out and read a few. It helps to keep me going, it brings me love.
I am looking forward to our next retreat and spending more time with all these wonderful friends.
