What is an Infinite Boundaries^© retreat?

Infinite Boundaries^© retreats are 4-day wellness retreats. The program includes discussion groups, creative arts and low-impact physical activities.  Special care is taken in choosing scenic, natural settings because we believe that healing can be found in nature.  Discussion topics include living with the fear the cancer may return; dealing with difficult feelings such as anger, betrayal, fear and guilt; and restoring one’s sense of joy in areas such as sensuality and sexuality.  Creative activities are designed to encourage self-expression and include beading, creating prayer flags, and mask making.  At retreat, participants are encouraged to stretch their boundaries by learning a new physical skill.  Kayaking or team building ropes course may be options depending on the retreat location.  Physical wellness through exercise and body movement and healthy, nutritious meals are a part of daily life during an Infinite Boundaries^© retreat.

Is it too soon for me to go on a retreat?  We usually encourage women to wait until they have completed their treatment; however, many women with breast cancer receive a longer-term treatment and they may be “ready” for a retreat as soon as their acute treatment has ended.

Is it too late for me to go to a retreat?  Women attend retreat at different times from the date of their diagnosis.  Frequently, they choose to attend after their treatment has ended, within 1-2 years.  However, several women are 10+ years out from their diagnosis, feel they are in a place in their life where they would like to focus on living life more fully, which includes taking time out to attend an Infinite Boundaries^© retreat. Occasionally, a participant who is years out from her diagnosis realizes that she has some lingering issues from her breast cancer that she would like to talk about with other breast cancer survivors.

Why should I attend a retreat?  When traveling on an airplane, passengers are instructed to "put your own oxygen mask on first and then assist those around you."  By attending an Infinite Boundaries^© retreat and taking care of yourself you will be better able to take care of those who depend on you.  We encourage you to give yourself permission to focus on you for a few days.

I am so emotional; I am afraid that I will cry all the time.  Can I still come? The Breast Cancer Recovery staff is committed to creating a safe environment so that you can feel comfortable just as you are.  We strive to meet women where they’re at, both physically and emotionally.  Breast Cancer Recovery believes that there is no right or wrong way to feel. Whatever you are feeling is normal.

Do I have to participate in all of the activities? We encourage attendance at all meals and activities so that you can benefit from your time at retreat.  However, retreat is your time so if you need to rest or take care of other health needs; we ask that you communicate that with your retreat team.  One of the key concepts we encourage at retreat is asking for what you need.  We encourage participants to participate at their comfort level in all of the components of the retreat.  You are always in control of your level of disclosure and participation.

Can I continue my special diet at retreat?  Yes.  We are able to accommodate most dietary concerns.  We strive to provide healthy, nutritious meals with an occasional treat.  We can provide vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free meal options.

Will I have my own room?  Yes, you will have your own room.

How much does it cost?  We ask for a $150 non-refundable deposit.  The total registration fee is $400.  This fee includes the deposit.  Due to very generous donors, all women are able to attend an Infinite Boundaries^© retreat at a greatly reduced fee.  The actual cost is estimated at $1,500 per person. 

Can I pay in installments? Yes. We will work with you to make it possible to attend a retreat.

Are scholarships available?  Yes.  Because women living with breast cancer often face considerable medical expense during and after diagnosis, Breast Cancer Recovery places a strong emphasis on ensuring that all women – regardless of financial standing – can experience an Infinite Boundaries^© retreat.

Do I have to do the physical activities?  You are encouraged to participate at your comfort level. We always try to make our physical activities accessible.  You are always in control of your level of participation.

Is the retreat really “touchy feely?”  Infinite Boundaries^© retreats provide environments for women to heal emotionally from their breast cancer.  People have different perceptions of what “touchy feely” means to them.  Some of us are like open books and others choose to process their emotions internally and both are fine.  

What time are we expected to arrive the first day and leave the last day?  We ask that you arrive between 3 and 4 pm on the first day and will finish on the last day by noon. 

Can I attend a retreat with a friend or relative?  The retreats are exclusively designed for breast cancer survivors to continue or begin healing on their own.  We believe that this is a time for self reflection for survivors and this is done best by attending a retreat solo.  Only survivors may attend the retreats.

I know there are a few specialty retreats.  How do I know which one would best suit me?  Give us a call at (608)661-4178!  We understand that every situation is unique and some survivors may fit into more than one category. 

Does Breast Cancer Recovery help with travel?  At this point we are unable to help with any travel expenses or provide transportation to and from the retreats.  We do however, put you in contact with others attending retreat for you to carpool.  Many women do choose to carpool with other retreat attendees if they live or pass through their area. 

I am interested in speaking with someone who has attended retreat.  Is this possible?  Of course!  We have plenty of past retreat attendees who are willing to share their retreat experience. Call us at (608)661-4178 and we will put you in touch with a past retreatant .