‘It’s not easy’: Non-profit hosts multi-day camp for cancer survivors
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WHNT) — Going through cancer could be a difficult journey, but so could life after the disease as a survivor it’s why a non-profit organization in Huntsville is looking to change that.
LivOn Journey Camp was founded by JoLanda Harris who is Alabama’s first certified cancer coach who overcame the disease. It brings survivors together for a two-day retreat in an effort to show them how to live their lives after beating cancer.
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“People think you can just pick up where you left off and its not that easy,” Harris explained.
The camp-like setting is dedicated to providing a space for survivors to connect and engage on a level only they understand. Only those who have been in their shoes like Harris can understand the challenging reality of a survivor’s path.
“When I had cancer I didn’t ask why me, I asked God what is that you want me to do,” Harris said. “It just makes me feel good that I’m helping, I’m serving the community, and I’m living my purpose.”
Harris, with the help of cancer coach Tom Gilry a survivor from Switzerland, is helping a group of men to work through those difficulties.
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She began the gatherings two years ago and has helped dozens to work through their survival journey, free of charge. This year’s camp is focused on men who often to do not get the same treatment as women.
“The cancer journey is scary, there were moments that I did not know if i was going to survive,” said Maurice Wright who’s participating in this year’s camp. “There’s a lot of trauma that is associated with its treatments, chemo, radiation, and stigmas just dealing with a new normal and having to go through all of that, it tough.”
Survivors like Wright say he is looking forward to connecting with other survivors as they all work to address their mental, emotional, and spiritual healing.
“It’s something that’s definitely needed, I’m very grateful I said that I was very optimistic about being here it’s a blessing to have such an awesome experience,” Wright told News 19.
Harris says growing the camp as time goes on is a top priority along with letting survivors know they’re not alone.
“We just want to make sure that you have a safe place to experience survivorship but most of all my goal is that no cancer survivor ever feels lost or left behind,” Harris said.
Although this year’s retreat is for men, LivOn Journey Camp is here for all cancer survivors throughout the Tennessee Valley.
If you or someone you know is a cancer survivor, you can find more information on how the organization can assist here.
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