Sometimes breast cancer patients and survivors need a break, from doctors, treatment, even from well-meaning friends and everyday life. They need a supportive, nurturing environment where they are surrounded by others who understand what they’ve been through. That’s just what a cancer retreat can offer; rest and refuge, education and encouragement, hugs and laughs among others who will quickly become new, and sometimes lifelong friends. Many organizations offer retreats that last from a weekend to a week long.

Some are completely FREE of charge, while for others you may pay your own transportation. Because of their popularity, there may be waiting lists, so apply early and often if you don’t get in the first time.

• Casting for Recovery offers FREE 2 ½-day retreats to women from all 50 states who have received a breast cancer diagnosis. Retreats incorporate fly-fishing instruction and emotional support, ending with a half-day of guided catch and release fly fishing. The program is appropriate for women in all stages of treatment and recovery, and various stages of physical and emotional adaptation to breast cancer. Held from April to November, participants are chosen randomly. You can reapply if not selected. Click Here, or call 888-553-3500, to apply to the retreat closest to you.
• Reel Recovery: Not to leave out the population of male breast cancer survivors, Reel Recovery is a national non-profit organization that conducts FREE fly-fishing retreats for men living with all forms of cancer. They offer expert fly-fishing instruction and opportunities for survivors to learn a new skill, form lasting friendships and gain renewed hope, as they confront the challenges of cancer. Click Here
• Little Pink Houses provides FREE week-long beach retreats for breast cancer patients and their immediate families in private homes in 14 locations around the U.S. The aim is to promote recovery and reconnection in a relaxing environment. Meals are served in a common area with other families. Activities include fishing, yoga and parasailing. Babysitting is provided so parents can have a date night. Click Here, or call 336-213-4733. 
• Leslie’s Week: Women with Stage 4 breast cancer are eligible for a FREE vacation to the Great Smoky Mountains of Tennessee to enjoy time away from the reality of doctor’s visit, hospitals and cancer therapy thanks to Leslie’s Week. The organization helps families create “memories that outlast cancer”. Apply before May 1. The organization also offers education grants to children whose families have attended a Leslie’s Week Vacation Away from Cancer. Click Here 

Good to Know

• Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine sponsors one or two cruises a year complete with speakers, workshops and mastectomy-wear fashion shows. Cruises are not free, but each year they sponsor a contest to give away a FREE cruise. They also offer scholarships to women with stage IV breast cancer. For new dates, check in January. Click Here