What you can expect
Adventure
Do activities that will allow you to face your fears and let you get to know yourself a little better, like ziplining, hiking, and more.
Support
Connect with a group of people that totally get it. Together, we’ll go on an amazing adventure and take time to address what it means to be in that zone, and how to transition from it.
Empowerment
You’ll be empowered to continue moving forward by growing your confidence in your body and mind. You’ll recognize your strengths, push your limits, and let go of shit.
Schedule
Please note: Our primary objective on this retreat is to keep you safe, and all activities are subject to weather and other factors. However, be prepared to spend time outside in all weather conditions.
Thursday, September 26, 2024
Arrive in Deer Lake, NL and get to know your fellow YACCers. We will drive together to Rocky Harbour, NL which will be our "home base" for the retreat.
After settling in and enjoying dinner together, we will dive into the program with the opening circle.
Friday, September 27, 2024
After a delicious breakfast overlooking a beautiful ocean view, we will take a boat ride across a beautiful bay to Norris Point. From there, we will join trained guides to hike the Lookout Trail, a five km loop which gives us unparalleled views of some of Gros Morne National Park's top features.
We will make our way back to Rocky Harbour where we will share some of our thoughts of the day, and work on a writing activity that will help you move forward in your cancer experience.
Saturday, September 28, 2024
This is the one you have been waiting for. After Friday's "teaser hike," we will head to the Gros Morne Mountain trail where trained guides will help us climb a literal mountain over a 17 km hike while we process figurative ones. This tends to be a POW-ER-FUL day that leaves you feeling accomplished, bonded, amazed, and empowered.
We will also end this day with a group activity to reconnect, share stories, and work through another writing prompt.
Sunday, September 29, 2024
We'll take it "easier" on you on Sunday as we drive to Corner Brook, NL for a "choose your own adventure" kind of afternoon featuring activities like zip lining, and more! Take advantage of flying through the air to scream, shout, laugh, and marvel while reminding yourself of your courage.
Afterward, we'll have our closing circle where we will share some of our favourite moments of the last few days and prepare to leave our retreat bubble.
Monday, September 30, 2024
All good things must come to an end, and we'll enjoy one last breakfast together before you make your way home with newfound pride, full hearts, and new core memories to think about on your way.
Registration fees
There are three registration access options for this program:
- YACC funded (free registration): We know cancer can have a huge impact on your financial position, and we don't want it to stop you from attending life-changing programs. This option is for you if you are currently living in a low-income household, including those on unemployment, disability, no income/low income, etc.
- Partially funded ($1000): This option is for those who are able to contribute some of the costs of the program, either through paying for it themselves or fundraising. We can set you up with an online fundraising link to send your friends and family, and are happy to work with you on any other fundraising ideas you have.
- Self funded ($2,000): This option is for those who are able to cover the cost of their participation in the program, either through paying for it themselves or fundraising. We can set you up with an online fundraising link to send your friends and family, and are happy to work with you on any other fundraising ideas you have.
Please note: If you select a partially- or self-funded option, you are expected to contribute the full registration fee associated with this tier.
What's included in my registration fee?
- An unforgettable, life-changing experience with your peers that is guaranteed* to change your life
- A carefully crafted psychosocial program designed to help you move forward in your life after cancer
- Meals and snacks
- Accommodations at the Ocean View Hotel
- Guided hikes with Gros Morne Adventures
- A two-hour zip lining tour with Marble Zip Tours, or another adventure-based activity in the area
- Ground (and water) transportation between scheduled activities
- Memorabilia
- Miscellaneous activities as time and weather permit (ex. beach fire, scenic walks, etc.)
*Happiness is an inside measurement.
Other costs and fees
The retreat starts and ends at the Deer Lake Regional Airport (YDF), and we encourage you to make your travel arrangements as soon as possible to get the best deals.
We do have a travel assistance fund to help cover some of your transportation costs. Learn more here.
Eligibility
The activities aren’t going to be easy, so you need to feel confident your body can take four days of real adventure activity. For this program, it is important not only to fit the basic criteria but to also be in the right space mentally and physically. The bulk of the program will be demanding and we want you to live the full experience.
Requirements
Young adults who were diagnosed with cancer before the age of 40 and who are currently between 18-39. You can bring one supporter who has been there for you throughout your cancer experience, like a friend, spouse, sibling, etc. (supporters should also ideally be between 18 and 39).
You have to be in good and stable health.
You have to be at least one year post-treatment. (If this is not you but you think you can take the challenge physically, connect with us.)
Some spaces are tentatively reserved for survivors and supporters who have never been to a YACC event, and a few more spaces will be set aside for alumni. Also, Retreat Yourself Adventure is designed to be attended once; you might be eligible to return if you have had a relapse or new diagnosis.
Are you ready?
This program is for those who are less interested in sitting around a cozy retreat centre and are more interested in discussing their cancer experiences while speeding through the forest in a harness or hiking difficult trails.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to the physical requirements of this program, participants must be at least one year post-treatment. Please review our eligibility requirements before applying.
Questions?
Check out the Retreat Yourself Adventure 2024 FAQs or email [email protected]!