Our members received a wonderful update from Renee’ Denslow, Administrative Leader of our local Bluebird Cancer Retreat programs.   Prior to her introduction we were reminded that Grand Haven Rotary is in the midst of selling raffle tickets to try to win a new Jeep and if any of our members would like to buy a raffle ticket please contact any Grand Haven Rotarian.   The purpose of the raffle ticket sale is to support Grand Haven area programs benefiting the community.  Also, Barbara VanHorssen announced that the Prom with a Purpose was also happening on May 20^th at the Trillium Center on Van Wagoner Road, starting at 5pm, for the members and entire community interested in the Momentum Center.   All are invited to attend, with many raffle and auction opportunities.  Price is $25 per ticket, which includes a Pasta Bar dinner.

 

                Renee’ has presented to our Club in the past and her message is about encouragement of those who experience, live with, love a person with, and deal on a daily basis with Cancer.  For over 15 years she has been the leader of this organization which was brought to the Tri-Cities about 27 years ago with the encouragement of the Rev. Peter Theune and folks at that time who had cancer and found this program in the southern US which had been useful for those dealing with cancer.   NOCH, the American Cancer Society and Community supporters helped to launch a Retreat for people with cancer, their family members and care providers.  A Video was provided that showed how those who have cancer experienced happiness and the grace that comes with knowing they are not alone in the fight for Life.  People who share their experiences with others in this situation find emotional strengths to deal with what has been like a bumper car ride and the back and forth of a swing.  The release of these feelings, which provide the ability to face more of the disease that is or will be offered, provides strength to continue the cancer victims efforts.   That is the point of a Retreat, and sharing among those with cancer.

 

To the non-ill person, it is common to ask an ill person how they are doing.   That is a difficult question and also perhaps leads to a place that the cancer infected person does not want to spend time discussing.   However, when a person with cancer discusses those issues with another person dealing with cancer, including family members,  the discussion focuses more on ‘How you are Doing?”.  The attendees have similar problems, and similar feelings.   A person finds that talking about matters means they are not alone.  

 

The Retreat programs have shorter term weekend retreats, some at Camp Geneva along the Lakeshore toward Holland, and week long term family Retreats at Double JJ Ranch near Shelby.    Volunteers also have provided the opportunity for people experiencing Cancer to have a Lift Chair in their home as surgical recovery from Cancer often causes muscle and tendon issues so the Lift Chair assists in recovery.

 

Renee concluded her presentation with the observation that a collaborative effort is occurring with the Bluebird Retreats to make a powerful experience for a Cancer patient to be encouraged for their own efforts and that of their family and friends.  The Bluebird Cancer Retreats program will be sponsoring with the help of many other contributors a FLOCK PARTY, where a community-wide concert to support Bluebird Cancer Retreats will occur on Thursday, June 22 at Lynne Sherwood Waterfront Stadium in Grand Haven.  Music will be provided by JEDI Mind Trip and the evening begins at 5:30pm, with tickets bought early at $10, and group rates, plus $15 at the Gate.  Everyone is welcome, and especially those who want to help people with Cancer, or who are experiencing the issues of Cancer.

 

This was a very informative presentation.   All Retreats are typically fully booked months in advance so creating the opportunity for additional Retreats is helping people live a wonderful life when dealing with the ravages of Cancer.   Camp Bluebird Retreats, through contacting Renee’ at 616-502-0669 can use more volunteers and supporters.  The Web site is bluebirdmi.org. 

 

Lucky Ernie Petrus, advisor to all, was the winner of the 50/50 drawing!!   Congratulations to Him, and you must be present to Win…

 

Your Scribe, Tom Boven