Cancer camps and retreats promote relaxation, adventure, and community. These getaways, whether weeklong or summer long, allow patients to leave the tiresome hospital visits and sterile medical environments behind for a few days. No matter how young or old you are, a camp or retreat will relieve stress, encourage creativity, and promote healing.

Most camps and retreats have been designed to assist patients with special needs, and many facilities employ full-time oncologists and nurses who can answer campers’ questions and provide medical care if necessary. Hospitals, socials workers, and other health organizations have been championing cancer camps and retreats for many years. Their enthusiastic support and fundraising has made most camps available at little or no cost to the patient.

Be sure to check out our list of cancer getaways. If you see something you like, talk to your doctor about the health benefits of a cancer camp or retreat.