Jessica Schneckloth
2023 Participant/Breast Cancer Survivor
Northern Outer Banks

Before arriving at our retreat, I started to convince myself that at this place in my journey I did not need this experience – or maybe even that someone else might need it more. Upon arriving, I realized immediately I was wrong.

I did not realize how guarded my husband and I had become with everyone around us. We had been careful not to share too much or overload people with information, and in some cases, we did not share at all. In this space we never once worried about saying too much, or being too candid – we all were in the space place. Sure, the treatments are a bit varied, with different stages, but they’re more alike than not.

I needed this, my husband needed it, and the future us needed this. We grew closer and reminded ourselves that we need to take time like this on a regular basis, even if it’s just a weekend away to focus on what is important, to recenter. It’s crazy how easy it is to get into the swing of things once you acclimate – appointments, procedures, shifting tasks within the home, etc., and not appreciate everything you and your family are going through.

I was reminded of many feelings and experiences that I had tabled to just survive the process. It was good to have a safe space to just be. It was so nice to see other people experiencing the caregiver role too. My husband hopefully will never know what it is like to be the patient, and I, God willing, will never know what challenges and fears come with caring for someone going through this.

I met the most wonderful group of people. I am not sure how it is for every group, but I just loved these couples and our retreat director and her husband. From the directors, the volunstars, the chef and her assistant, and the people in town, everyone was lovely.

I am making plans to see some of the ladies who live closer to me before the holidays, along with our husbands. Even though we continue to brave treatments, radiation, and surgeries I think we understand the power in our retreat, in being surrounded by people experiencing a similar walk and holding similar values.

I cannot thank LPHOH enough for the work, time, care, and love that was so evidently poured into each and every one of us. To the town of Corolla, NC, and the homeowners, restaurants, and local businesses that dedicated their time, services, and resources, thank you for your generosity.