We shall draw from the heart of suffering itself the means of inspiration and survival. ~Winston Churchill

The days following were quite structured--there were many possible issues to touch on in one short weekend, so our time was organized accordingly. Each morning began with an 8:30 Qigong session. Qigong is a practice similar to Tai Chi. It's name is derived from the Chinese words "Qi," meaning "energy," and "gong," meaning "practise." It is a Chinese exercise system which works on cultivating and attracting lifeforce energies to strengthen health and prevent ilness. It includes "regulating the body" through posture, "regulating the mind" through quiet, relaxation and concentration of one's mental activity, "regulating the breath", self-massage and movement of the limbs. This was an activity I really enjoyed, but it takes a great deal of practise to truely benefit from it.

Following Qigong there was a delicious breakfast served in the kitchen, with the entire family of Camp Maromac always present. There was always a large variety of food to eat--eggs, pancakes, fresh baked breads, cereals, fruit, yogurt-- you name it, they had it. Following breakfast we would meet for approx. 3 hours, during which time we would meditate, practice yoga, have support group sessions, and do workshops in small groups. Each meditation and yoga session was led by Tim and Rob (the psychologist and oncologist), and each workshop and small group session was led by either Tim, Rob, or one of the 3 social workers who were present the entire weekend. We covered a wide array of issues facing young adults dealing with cancer, including: moving forward, expectations of others, self-confidence, sexuality, fear, relationships, advocacy, and many more.

Following our busy mornings, our afternoons consisted of lunch (again, always an amazingly delicious meal), and lots of time spent enjoying all the amazing facilities the camp had to offer. In one weekend I got to paddleboat, kayak, run, play baseball, basketball, volleyball, and tennis, and have many fun jam sessions with the numerous musicians who happened to come to the retreat. The latter part of the days were basically a repition of the earlier part of the days--eat, sessions, then free time. The fire pit, musical instruments, and talent, made for some rather enjoyable campfires at night.