The Healing Sanctuary, a nonprofit retreat, gives cancer survivors in the Akron area a chance to step away from their daily responsibilities and focus on healing. Founded by three local women who underwent breast cancer treatments, the retreat provides a luxurious experience, complete with yoga, meditation, and spa treatments, all free of charge.

A Safe Space for Healing

The retreat, which hosts five women at a time, aims to fill a gap in survivorship care, providing a space for women to process their emotions and reconnect with themselves and others. According to Dr. Azka Ali, an oncologist at the Cleveland Clinic, cancer treatment can have a significant impact on a patient’s emotional and mental well-being, making a supportive community crucial for recovery.

The Healing Sanctuary’s founders, Eileen Brown, Marisa Fatica, and Kelly Inglett, understand the importance of this support firsthand. After attending a similar retreat in New Jersey, they decided to bring the experience to Akron, providing a safe space for women to share their stories and find comfort in each other’s company.

A Community of Support

Sarah Bokovitz, a participant in one of the first retreats, found the experience to be exactly what she needed after finishing treatment for her breast cancer. The retreat helped her relax, connect with others, and find a sense of peace, which she says was essential for her mental and emotional healing.

The Healing Sanctuary’s ultimate goal is to create a permanent sanctuary with a spa, sauna, and workout room, where women can escape the stresses of everyday life and focus on their well-being. With the help of donations and community support, the nonprofit hopes to expand its services and provide more women with the opportunity to heal and find support.

Original reporting: Signal Akron — read the source article.