Our Family Cancer Retreats

What is the Family Cancer Retreat?

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."
Spring Family Cancer Retreat Participant

Can children attend the Retreats?

We’re happy to welcome children ages 14 and older to take part in the retreat and join their parents in all sessions. To help everyone get the most out of the educational programs, children under 14 are not permitted in the conference areas during sessions. We kindly ask that parents supervise their children at all times so families can enjoy a safe and positive experience together.

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.

When is the next retreat?

Join us for the 2026 Family Cancer Retreat, May 15–17 in Albuquerque, New Mexico! This free, nationally recognized program offers education, hope, and community for cancer patients, survivors, and their loved ones — but space is limited.

Questions?

Contact Shirelle Quintana – 505-977-1532