The Illuminate Retreat

A cancer diagnosis as a young adult is isolating. Between the loss of independence, disrupted life plans, and the emotional toll of treatment, many young women feel like they no longer belong—not in the world they knew before cancer, and not yet in a future beyond it.

The Illuminate Retreat is a sanctuary designed to bridge that gap. Hosted by Lighthouse For Hope, this transformative retreat brings together 10 young women who are currently facing cancer. Over the course of several days in a breathtaking and serene setting, participants step away from hospitals, appointments, and the daily burdens of illness to rediscover themselves in a space of healing, connection, and empowerment.

Surrounded by others who truly understand their journey, attendees form deep and lasting bonds—friendships rooted in shared experiences, resilience, and hope. Through guided discussions, wellness workshops, outdoor adventures, and moments of quiet reflection, each participant is reminded that she is more than her diagnosis. She is strong. She is seen. She is not alone.

Research shows that adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer patients experience the highest rates of depression and anxiety among all age groups. Yet, support for this community is scarce, leaving many feeling abandoned at a time when they need connection the most. The Illuminate Retreat fills this void, creating a safe space where young women can openly process their emotions, gain tools for mental and emotional well-being, and build a support system that extends far beyond the retreat itself.

For these 10 young women, the Illuminate Retreat is more than a getaway—it is a turning point. A chance to reclaim joy, forge lifelong friendships, and step forward into survivorship with confidence, knowing they are never alone in their journey.

  • "I cannot put into words how much this trip meant to me. It was beautiful and healing and I did not know that this type of pure joy could exist after all 10 of us have been through. I was terrified. I didn’t know anyone that was going, I had never been that far away from home alone. But I went with an open heart and mind and it was more than anything I could have possibly dreamed. I met girls that felt like sisters in a matter of minutes. I ate delicious food. I sang at the top of my lungs in the car. I cried and felt love and support all around me. I felt alive, and so authentically myself - something I didn’t know if I would ever feel again. I will never stop thinking about these healing 5 days."

  • “6 months later and I continue to see the impact the Illuminate Retreat has had on my life and healing journey. I am so lucky that Lighthouse For Hope brought me on this trip.”

  • "It was so validating & comforting to spend this time with other girls who've gone through cancer treatment because they saw and accepted all of me - the parts of myself that are related to cancer and the parts having nothing to do with it. I thought I'd lost all sense of who I was when I was diagnosed, but after this trip I think maybe I never knew - not even before I got sick. Because I've never felt more like myself in my life than in that big beautiful house in Hawaii."

  • "The Illuminate Retreat healed me in so many ways emotionally and mentally which in turn healed a lot of things physically. I really feel it was the catalyst in my long term healing journey."

Donate to the Illuminate Retreat

Where & When: TBD

What To Expect: A once-in-a-lifetime healing and bonding experience at a luxurious home in a beautiful setting.

Qualifications: You may apply if you are between the ages of 18 and 26 and are currently undergoing treatment for cancer or blood disorder or have recently completed treatment within 5 years. If you are currently on treatment, you must receive doctors clearance to attend and send documentation. Everyone attending the retreat is encouraged to have updated Flu & COVID-19 vaccinations. Some attendees are still on treatment, with compromised immune systems, and this is to ensure everyone has a safe and healthy experience.

Application Process: Retreat attendance is limited to 10 young women. Our team considers each submission, and reserves the right to accept or deny any applicant at our sole discretion.

Retreat Cost: The Illuminate Retreat is a complimentary retreat. Attendees are responsible for covering costs of flights.*

Lighthouse For Hope covers lodging, meals during the retreat, ground transportation, and planned activities.

*If not local, each person is responsible for booking their own airfare. However, Lighthouse For Hope will supply airfare assistance for those that qualify and apply for scholarship.

Illuminate Retreat Application - 2025