Hearing the stories of others who battled the same disease, as well as their normal everyday-life problems, gave me greater courage to face my own life's challenges. I loved the great lessons in the simple tales.

Although all the women attending were coping with or had survived cancer or other serious illness, the weekend was not about being sick. It was about being well and whole and about enjoying an aesthetically pleasing and creative life. Although it was not religious, it was very spiritual. It was a reminder to look for the beautiful things in each day, to count your blessings, to get rid of the dark thoughts and to look for the light. It was about laughing and crying, having fun and forming bonds with women who had gone through similar life changing experiences. It wasn't just a weekend of fun, but an experience that has made me better able to cope with my own battle with cancer.

Being in the company of other women who have similar paths helps me identify things that I need to learn… I love the varied backgrounds of the participants… I drink their wisdom, knowledge and ability to share. We have emotional freedoms that aren't always available to us in our everyday lives. I look forward to the fall crisp air, the familiar faces from other years, the new faces, and to celebrate the spirits of those who are unable to return.

The weekend was an opening into my soul, into my very core being.

What I sought to gain pales in comparison with the actual gain…the depth of friendships formed and renewed, the serenity and hope gained, the gleaning of strength and courage from the women present, many of whom are facing challenges far greater than my own. I intend to participate in the Weekend for years to come, and I sincerely hope that it will continue to grow. The sharing, healing, and serenity of this experience are invaluable.