The retreat makes a tremendous difference in their sense of hope not just for survival, but in their quality of life and sense of control. Most people who participate in the retreat suddenly see there are opportunities out there. Those whose chances for long-term survival are higher continue to use the skills we use in the retreat. Studies suggest that any or all of the things we use can enhance the immune system and strengthen the ability of the body to fight cancer but that s not our goal. We tend to look more at how people handle existential issues.
Some participants report a lack of fear and the ability to be in control.
A lot feel a tremendous burden has been lifted. I m a nurse who has worked in high-level positions. After working in administration, I became increasingly drawn to healing. I went into this profession because I wanted to help people heal, but I got farther away from that in my nursing career. I saw a PBS program on the Commonwealth retreat program in the early 1990s and decided, that s it.