2022 Annual Retreat

Home·com·ing /ˈhōmˌkəmiNG/ (noun) 1. an instance of returning home. ⁠

This year, our 2022 Annual Retreat will be in Rock Hill, NY at Iroquois Springs from September 30 – October 3, 2022!

The 2022 Annual Retreat is a homecoming to our sisterhood and ourselves with a focus on body image and body confidence. After our two-year retreat hiatus due to COVID-19, we are excited to be returning home to our sisterhood and reconnecting with each other. In addition to focusing on connection, we will be exploring the many layers of IBD and or ostomies that affect our body image and self-esteem.

As many of us know, when you have IBD or an ostomy, there are so many layers to our body image and self-esteem. We can feel alienated from our bodies that become transformed by our stories of survival. From prednisone-related weight changes to surgical scars to coping with invasive procedures for many of us, our bodies do not feel like a welcoming home. That’s why, this year, we are focusing on coming home to our sisterhood, deepening our connections, and developing our relationships with ourselves and the strength of our bodies.

During the weekend participants will have the option to attend workshops, participate in small group discussions, and enjoy activities such as a photoshoot, and outdoor recreation.

To learn more before registering, visit our 2022 Annual Retreat Brief.

Be ready to provide this information upon registering for the 2022 Annual Retreat:

• Registration fee of $350 (or $300 if you are a GWG volunteer)
• General demographic information
• Medical information (including medical providers telephone number, emergency contact information, COVID-19 vaccination information, and dietary needs)
• We ask that those that register be willing to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken at least 72 hours before the event. We will also be requiring attendees to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination.