Infinite Boundaries Retreats
“The BCRF retreat helped me find my spirit. Some of the memories will stay with me the rest of my life. Cancer can be so all-consuming that you forget to live. I left the BCRF retreat knowing I was going to live my life very differently.”
- Penny, Infinite Boundaries 2005
Realizing that the journey to recovery involves the total woman - mind and body - BCRF offers the Infinite Boundaries retreat, a four-day wellness program for women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Finding inner strength at retreats, women gain courage and hope to live each day beyond the boundaries of breast cancer. BCRF embraces all women with breast cancer in their diversity including all faith traditions, ages, races, ethnicites, sexual orientations and financial resources.
What is Infinite Boundaries?
Knowing what to expect after treatment and lessons in survivorship are essential ingredients in one’s recovery from breast cancer. Women in all stages of breast cancer are welcome to attend an Infinite Boundaries retreat.
Infinite Boundaries retreats feature discussion groups, creative arts and low-impact outdoor activities. Special care is taken in choosing breathtaking settings, full of natural splendors, because there is healing in nature. Discussion topics include living with the fear that the cancer will return; dealing with difficult feelings such as anger, betrayal, fear and guilt; and restoring one’s sense of joy in areas such as sensuality and sexuality. Creative activities are designed to encourage self-expression and include beading, creating prayer flags, and mask making. At retreat, participants are encouraged to stretch their boundaries by learning a new physical skill. Kayaking, hiking and bicycling may be offered, depending on the location. The opportunity to find peace and renewal by walking a labyrinth is a focal point of the retreat weekend. Physical wellness through exercise and body movement and healthy, nutritious meals are a part of the daily life during an Infinite Boundaries retreat.
Are Infinite Boundaries retreats available for women with specialized needs?
Yes!
The Breast Cancer Recovery Foundation, Inc. offers the following specialty retreats:
Retreat for women with metastatic breast cancer: Women with metastatic breast cancer face a whole new checklist of issues regarding continued treatments, quality of life and chronic pain and fatigue. This specialized retreat offers a safe and caring environment for sharing and reflection.
Retreat for young survivors: Because young women with breast cancer (under age 40) face unique emotional and physical challenges, this retreat is designed specifically for this age group. Come and share your stories with other young women who are on the same journey.
Retreat for women who are or have gone through the experience of breast cancer without the support of a spouse, partner or significant other: Navigating through the diagnosis of breast cancer is daunting, even with the support of a partner or significant other. Being on one’s own can often add to the challenges faced during treatment and recovery. Meet other women who have had similar experience to share tools and skills for survivorship.
Why should you consider attending an Infinite Boundaries retreat?
When traveling on an airplane, you are instructed to “put your own oxygen mask on first and then assist those around you.” By attending an Infinite Boundaries retreat and taking care of yourself – emotionally, physically and spiritually – you will be better able to take care of those who depend on you. We encourage you to give yourself permission to focus on you for a few days.
Each of the Infinite Boundaries retreats offer a quiet place and reflective atmosphere in which to slow down the pace of life and restore balance. Rest, renew and restore your spirit!