Am I eligible?

You are eligible if:

You are currently a patient who has cancer or you are within 6 months of being cancer-free.

You are the caregiver or family member of someone battling any type of cancer.

You are able to obtain written proof of cancer from a treating facility.

Who can I bring to a retreat?   

Patient/Caregiver Retreats:

Caregiver attendees include the patient’s primary caregivers regardless of whether or not they reside in the same home.  We understand that each person’s cancer journey is going to be unique and their support system may not be immediate family.

Family Retreats:

Family Retreat attendees will be dependent on the type of retreat being held. We understand that each patient’s family will look different and we strive to be as accommodating as possible. We will evaluate each application on a case-by-case basis.

How much does it cost to attend a retreat?

Retreats are offered at no cost and include all programs and meals. This is made possible through fundraising efforts, grants, and the support of our amazing community. 

Travel to and from the retreat is the participant’s responsibility.

Where and when are retreats held?

Retreats are held at various Maryland locations.

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, we are currently offering virtual retreats in place of in-person retreats. To learn more, please visit our Virtual Retreats page. All in-person retreats are expected to resume in 2022.

What does a typical retreat look like?

Respite Retreats offers one-day retreats at various locations in Maryland. While no two retreats will be alike, each will provide necessary respite for those affected by cancer. Retreats will offer individual and group activities focused on healing the mind, body, and spirit. Our group retreats will range in size from 20-30 participants.

While on retreat, we invite you to experience a range of holistic therapies, which may include yoga, meditation, music, art, sound and massage therapy, guided imagery, journaling, acupressure, Reiki, nutrition demonstrations, and so much more…

Will I be required to participate in the activities during the retreat?

No. We understand that everything we offer at our retreats may not be of interest to all of our participants for many reasons. However, we do expect you to participate in most activities. By not participating, you are taking away an opportunity for someone else to experience a much-needed break from life with cancer. We ask that you be open to experience new things in our safe, nourishing environment.

How do I apply and when does notification occur?

Selections are made as applications come in.

Retreat acceptance notifications occur one month before the retreat.

All notifications are communicated through the email address provided in the application.