GVL Thrive

10/16/2026

We Remember Elizabeth Szybatka

Elizabeth Szybatka passed away on February 13, 2025 at just 34 years old after a courageous battle with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer.

Elizabeth was a beloved wife, mom, daughter, sister, and friend whose big heart touched so many lives. As a mental health professional and registered play therapist, she dedicated her career to helping children and families navigate difficult circumstances. She also loved spending time with her family, hosting gatherings, camping, and exploring Minnesota’s beautiful North Shore.

At GVL Thrive, we believe families deserve moments of joy, connection, and rest while navigating the challenges of cancer. Through our respite gifts, we help families create meaningful memories together and experience a little breathing room during an incredibly difficult time.

Elizabeth’s story reminds us why these moments matter. Time together is precious, and the memories families make can be treasured for years to come.

We hold Elizabeth’s husband, Adam, her children, Callie and Gene, and all who loved her in our hearts. 💗

10/16/2026

Remembering Joel.

Joel was a husband, father of five, devoted friend, and man of deep faith who courageously battled glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. He passed away on January 15, 2025, after a long and courageous fight.

Through GVL Thrive, we had the privilege of gifting Joel and his family a respite stay at Grand View Lodge. Our respite program provides Minnesota families navigating cancer with a three-night getaway, offering time to rest and make meaningful memories together outside of cancer treatment.

Joel’s story reminds us why these moments matter. Cancer affects the entire family, and sometimes the most meaningful gift is simply time together.

Joel will be remembered for his kindness, humor, love for his family, and the joy and peace he shared with those around him. We are grateful that GVL Thrive could be a small part of his family’s journey.

We honor Joel’s memory and send our love to Melissa and their family.

10/16/2026

Meet Jason!

Husband and father diagnosed with stage 4 terminal prostate cancer in July of 2022. I married my wife 11 days later and we live in Minnesota raising our family and making memories while I’m still alive.

10/15/2026

Meet Kyle!

I'm 42 and a single parent to 2 girls (9&6). I was diagnosed over a year ago with 9 months to live. Im here a year and a half later. Im feeling great. Me and my kids currently live with my parents to help with bills, I am currently not working.

09/30/2026

Meet Cassandra!

Our mom Cassandra Dahler was diagnosed with stage 4 bronchogenic adenocarcinoma back in April 2026. With recent news that her cancer has spread to her brain and other parts of the body we are honored and very thankful for this opportunity to spend time together as a family.

From being a healthy and active 53 year old to receiving devastating news has been hard on all of us but especially her. She continues to fight hard everyday! Mom loves the outdoors and spending time with her two girls.

09/30/2026

09/18/2026

Join us in sending love to our class of 26-27! We are so excited to welcome you to Grand View Lodge!

09/18/2026

Sending lots of love to Holly as we remember James 💕