Respite Retreats

06/03/2026

It's hard to believe that four years ago, Abby's Carts of Courage was just a dream and a hopeful idea. Today, we are celebrating four incredible years of bringing comfort, smiles, and courage to children and families facing cancer.

We are endlessly grateful to our donors, supporters, volunteers, and the amazing Carts Kids and their families who have been part of this journey. Your encouragement, generosity, and belief in our mission have helped turn a dream into something truly meaningful.

A special thank you to Respite Retreats for believing in us from the beginning and for continuing to support our mission. Together, we've created countless moments of joy and made a difference in the lives of so many families.

05/31/2026

Today was all about Cabi confidence, connection, and feeling beautiful.

A heartfelt thank you to Cabi Love Local for partnering with Respite Retreats to create a special experience for 28 incredible women affected by cancer. Guests enjoyed the opportunity to be styled in beautiful Cabi fashions, spend time connecting with one another, and enjoy delicious snacks in a warm and welcoming environment.

To make the day even more memorable, the talented Christina Magill Marcinek captured each guest’s beauty, strength, and spirit through professional photographs.

A very special thank you to our friend Audra Kincaid Whitelock for picking us to make a difference with & serving as our gracious host and helping create such a welcoming and uplifting experience for everyone who attended. We are also incredibly grateful to the fabulous volunteers who generously gave their time, energy, and talents to help make the day a tremendous success. Events like this simply would not be possible without your support.

Moments like these remind us that cancer may impact a person’s life, but it does not define who they are.

Today was about laughter, friendship, self-expression, and celebrating the remarkable women in our community.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this day so special. 💜

05/29/2026

Please meet Respite Retreats Abby's Carts of Courage newest warrior, Elliette!

Elliette is an incredible 11-year-old cancer warrior who has been bravely battling leukemia since April 2024. Throughout her journey, she has endured many rounds of treatment, with her most recent round beginning this May. Despite the challenges she faces, Elliette continues to show remarkable strength, resilience, and grace beyond her years.

Like many young girls, losing her hair during treatment has been especially difficult, and she is hopeful this latest round will allow her to keep it. Even through the hard days, Elliette’s bright personality shines through. She is mature for her age, a true foodie, and loves everything Broadway. She enjoys performing in dance recitals, getting lost in a good book, sipping tea, and playing games (especially mystery games).

Elliette also loves building with Legos and curling up to watch Pride and Prejudice. Her experiences have inspired a big dream. She hopes to become an oncologist so she can help other children facing battles like her own.

Elliette was fully sponsored by friends and family in honor of Brave Maeve � 🎗💛🌻🌼

05/24/2026

Respite Retreats is hosting FREE Virtual Bingo for families affected by cancer on Thursday, July 16th at 6:00 PM EST!

This special evening is open to individuals currently facing cancer, those within 6 months post-cancer, and their families. Thanks to the generous support of the Baughman Family Foundation, participants can enjoy:
✨ Amazon gift card prizes
✨ Door prizes
✨ Family-friendly fun from the comfort of home

At Respite Retreats, we believe everyone deserves moments to step away from the diagnosis and reconnect with joy, laughter, and each other. 💜

Spots fill quickly, so gather your family, your favorite snacks, and get ready to yell BINGO! 🎱

Sign up by going to https://www.respiteretreats.org/virtual-bingo.

05/23/2026

05/19/2026

Princesses — dust off your tiaras and join us for A Charmed Affair on Sunday, July 19th at Xenia Greek Kouzina in support of Respite Retreats.

This girls day out includes a fun photo quest, luncheon, team challenges, and lots of laughs — all while helping refuel the spirits of individuals and families affected by cancer.
We all princess differently… gowns not required, tiaras preferred. ✨
🎄 New this year: Christmas in July
We’re adding a little holiday fun to the day with festive touches, playful moments, and a few surprises along the way.

💫 Also new this year: Fundraise for Respite Retreats and you can earn free tickets and qualify for a chance to win a Team Overnight with your choice of spa treatments or golf & dinner for 4 at Turf Valley Resort.

Gather your team. Invite your girlfriends. Wear the tiara. Come for the fun and leave knowing you made a difference.

https://www.respiteretreats.org/a-charmed-affair.

05/18/2026

With hearts full of joy, we are thrilled to share some very special news from the Respite Retreats family.

On Saturday evening, two beloved members of our Board of Directors, Linda Sorg Ostovitz & Charlie McCabe were married surrounded by love, laughter, and the people who mean the most to them.

Please join us in congratulating the happy couple as they begin this beautiful new chapter together. We are so grateful for the compassion, dedication, and heart they each bring to Respite Retreats, and even more excited to celebrate this incredible moment in their lives.

Wishing Linda & Charlie a lifetime filled with love, adventure, happiness, and countless moments that refuel the spirit.

Congratulations to the newlyweds! 💜

05/18/2026

A Charmed Affair... - https://mailchi.mp/ae6b37915ae5/a-charmed-affair-june-11-18257697