OUR Family Cancer Retreat
What is the Family Cancer Retreat All About?
Our Nationally Recognized Family Cancer Retreat focuses on educating NM’s adult cancer patients/survivors and their primary caregivers. Participants learn to navigate through the process of surviving: handling the difficulties of the initial diagnosis, coping with therapy, dealing with a variety of medical and social challenges relating to at-home care, and the emotional and physical issues associated with surviving. There is no other program like this in New Mexico.
Launched in 2002, the Family Cancer Retreat is now the largest general cancer education program in New Mexico and the largest program of its type in the U.S.
The program is usually held twice each year. During each three-day program, New Mexican families coping with cancer attend sessions led by a variety of the state’s leading cancer specialists. Typical sessions include:
- Cancer 101
- Patient and Family Communication
- “Ask the Oncologist” Panels
- Legal, Insurance, and Paperwork Issues
- Integrative Medicine, Oncology, and Acupuncture
- New Developments in Cancer Treatment
- Cancer Pain, Palliative Medicine, and Hospice
- Choosing the Most Appropriate Treatment/Clinical Trial
- Coping with Treatment-Related Side Effects
- Caring for the Caregiver
- Talking with Kids About Cancer
- Practical Tips for Staying Out of the Hospital
- Meditation, Yoga, and Creativity Workshops
In addition to providing a temporary escape from the day-to-day challenges of living with cancer, the retreat fosters the development of supportive relationships between participants. Over the course of the retreat, families spend time talking and learning from one another; they quickly find out that they are no longer alone in their fight against cancer. These newly made friendships can continue in the months and years ahead.
“The Program helped my family realize they are not the only ones going through this- they met and talked to so many wonderful people.”
Can my children attend?
Absolutely…in fact, we highly recommend they come along! Cancer affects everyone in the family and even more so, young children and Teens. We also realize how important it is for parents to be able to give their full attention to each session they attend while at the retreat. Both our Kid’s and Teen Programs are supervised and led by trained volunteers who have experience in caring and helping children cope with cancer. Our lead volunteers have dealt with cancer in their own families. Our Kid’s program (infant to 11yrs old) keeps our youngest participants entertained with fun projects, activities, and surprises throughout the weekend. There is never a dull moment!
Our Teen Program (grades 6-12) creates a fun and supportive environment for our young participants. Our volunteers are trained to help teens normalize their feelings of anxiousness, fear, worry, anger, and sadness during their parent’s or family member’s illness. Through fun activities, games, and interaction with their peers, teens will begin to learn how to cope with the cancer affecting their loved one. More importantly, they will realize that they are not alone.
Unfortunately, children under the age of 14 are not permitted to attend the Fall 2023 Retreat. No childcare programs are available and children are not permitted in the conference area.
How much does it cost?
There is no charge to participate in the Family Cancer Retreat, thanks to the generosity of our supporters. The entire program – including meals, lodging, and all educational activities – is provided at no cost to participants. We realize the burdens of dealing with a major illness generally creates tremendous financial stresses.
COVID Vaccinations Requirements
Out of concern and safety for all who attend the retreat, Family Cancer Retreat participants, volunteers, and speakers must be fully vaccinated. Everyone will be required to show proof of vaccination in order to participate.
All participants, speakers, and volunteers are encouraged to wear a mask. Up to date COVID vaccinations are highly recommended.
2022 Spring Presentation Slides and Handouts
2022 Family Cancer Retreat
This fall, we anticipate an in-person event, September 9-11. Applications for the fall Retreat will be available in July, either online or by picking up a registration brochure at clinics and hospitals across the state.