When I think of the Kids Cancer Alliance Family Retreat, the first thing that comes to mind is all the new families I have met there. Our first year at the Retreat, I was nervous because meeting people who know how you feel is scary. It is hard to hide your emotions because you know others are feeling the same, but it ended up feeling like family. My kids found an extension, other kids who know what they are going through and they were able to just be kids. It was like a getaway for them. It was a place I did not have to be strong and have it all together. I could just be a MOM. When you are a cancer mom you are always "on" and there is no down time. There is no free time from worry, but that weekend I did not worry. I was too busy having fun and making new memories.
Every new family I meet, I tell them about the Retreat and how they and their kids need to be involved with KCA. The Retreat is a way for us as a family to get away and not worry about anything but each other. We went zip lining as a family, made crafts as a family and ate as a family, which we don't get to do often. This Retreat is so much more than just a Kids Cancer Alliance activity; it is a family reunion to us. The memories we have made are what keep us coming back. I am excited to see the new location this year and see what new memories we can make! 

Looking for a way to support Kids Cancer Alliance from the comfort of your own home? With our new Amazon Wish List, you simply choose something you would like to donate to our cause and the order can be sent straight to us! Be sure you have selected Kids Cancer Alliance as your charity for AmazonSmile and Amazon will donate a portion of your purchase. Kids Cancer Alliance is always in need of specific items for our many programs, so this wishlist is a great new way to help out!