“I had a wonderful time connecting with a group of Survivors and Thrivers for the first time. It was a joy to focus on my ‘Joy Journey,’ and the drum circle and sound bath were such a blessing of relaxation.”
The latest EmpowHER Day Retreat, A Journey to Joy, was designed to inspire and uplift participants through a day of wellness, reflection and community. And it did just that.
Held November 2 at the serene Wing Haven gardens, more than a dozen breast cancer Survivors and Thrivers experienced an empowering talk by Melissa Rivers, a nine-year breast cancer Survivor, who shared insights on joy and self-discovery. The day continued with an emotionally releasing drum circle led by Scott Swimmer of Drum STRONG, followed by a calming yoga and sound bath session with Terrie Reeves. The retreat concluded with a mindful lunch in the garden, where participants enjoyed journaling prompts to reflect on joy and personal growth.
This mix of activities created a meaningful day, full of peace, healing and self discovery. Shares participant Pamela, “I enjoyed the fun, food, sisterhood, drums and the sound bath. The drums and sound bath were absolutely new to me!”
This was echoed by another participant, Imogene, who said, “I had a wonderful time connecting with a group of Survivors and Thrivers for the first time. It was a joy to focus on my ‘Joy Journey,’ and the drum circle and sound bath were such a blessing of relaxation.”
The positive energy and enthusiastic participation in the retreat even impacted those who led the activities. Says Terrie Reeves, who led the sound bath and reflection exercises, “It was inspiring to see the participants relax, connect, and share what brings them joy. The retreat was a great reminder of how important it is to seek joy in every day.”
A heartfelt thank you to Todd DeGarmo for generously sponsoring our EmpowHER Day Retreats and making this special event possible. As Terrie sums it up, “The work CBF is doing matters and is making a difference in the lives of breast cancer Survivors and Thrivers. For that, we are grateful!”
