When Love Is Shared, It Grows: Recap from the 2025 Special Love Parents Getaway

As Bill and I headed to Tyson’s Corner, Virginia, for the Special Love Parents Getaway Weekend this past Friday, we were filled with anticipation about how this program has vastly grown (awestruck may be more like it!). We’re proud to be among the founding members of this essential and highly needed program, which dates back to the late 1990s. What began as a small, parent-led idea—because shouldn’t parents get to run away to camp too (but in a nice hotel?)—has blossomed into a beloved annual tradition. Thank Goodness for that!

Back when our son Ryan was in the thick of his cancer treatments, and his sister was feeling lost at times since her parents were "always" with her brother, a few of us parents realized we needed more than hospital waiting rooms, the sound of IV pumps in our hospital rooms, and medical jargon—we needed each other. More than a few of us craved this type of community. So, we carved out a single day to gather, talk, laugh, play games, and share our hearts. We even had a babysitter for the little ones who were set up in a different room. That one day became a lifeline, and today, with over 110 parents and caregivers attending this weekend, it’s clear that the need for connection and renewal remains strong. Four of the original couples, including Bill and me, are still helping plan the weekend with the Special Love Staff, alongside new faces who will carry the torch forward when we eventually decide to step aside (we’re still deciding when!).

Saturday Reflections

The Saturday program did not disappoint. I'm still glowing about this day. It began with a powerful and sobering speaker, Lindsey Wamsley, who shared insights about the good, the bad, and the downright hard realities of the cancer world. Lindsey spoke beautifully about coping strategies, PTSD, the not-so-gentle art of steadying ourselves, and the basic needs we all share as caregivers. She addressed many topics seamlessly and with compassion like no other. I think it was her wit, and humor, yes, humor!, that set her apart and engaged the audience.

Then came an unexpected burst of creativity with (actually, this activity was before our speaker, but please go with my snafu here!): art therapist Danielle Eichner. She led us through a card-making project, inviting us to trade our small masterpieces with one another. I didn’t expect it to be so much fun! Here are a few of the ones I made and traded:

In the afternoon, I had the opportunity to lead a craft session with another planning mom, where we painted small clay pots to take home and fill with soil and a succulent. (I couldn’t wait—mine was planted as soon as the paint was dry! 🌿) Next door, a group of parents were busy building birdhouses, and I couldn’t resist joining in that activity either. Soundbathing and Yoga were the other planned activities that were equally outstanding. If you have never tried a professional sound bath, you are in for a real sweet treat.

Evening Joy

The day wrapped up with dinner and dancing the night away—always one of my favorite parts! With 25 first-timers joining us this year, the room was filled with laughter, connection, and new friendships in the making - you could just feel the love that is so needed and being shared in that room, at least for me. I think many were amazed to discover just how deep and wide the Special Love community runs, not only in this event.

This incredible foundation doesn’t just support children with cancer; it embraces the entire family—siblings, parents, and caregivers alike. That’s the kind of love that endures, heals, and multiplies beyond anyone's comprehension.

New Connections, Lasting Conversations

Bill and I made it a point to sit with new families this year. How could we not, with 25 of them? That often means parents who are newly navigating a diagnosis or just stepping out of treatment—and who may never have experienced the warmth and programming of Special Love before.

We met two couples from Maryland who felt like instant friends. One lives on the Eastern Shore, not far from us, and the other is about an hour away. I’d love to plan a dinner soon so we can continue the conversation, hear more of their stories, and offer support where we can. Sometimes the best gift is simply listening—and as my dear friend Kym always says, “Listening is Number 1”

Over and over, I heard the same thing from the newcomers: how refreshing it was to talk freely about their children and families in a space where everyone simply gets it. No awkward silences. No sympathetic stares. No unsolicited advice from those who don’t understand. Just open hearts and shared understanding, that is the magic! Those quiet, powerful conversations that floated around the ballroom all weekend...that’s what community feels like. It can touch your heart like nothing else because when we discuss our children, the greatest gift in life (or at least for me), it's profound and everlasting.

As I unpack my thoughts and feelings from this weekend, I’m already thinking of sending a few notes to Angela, our program chair, about ideas for next year. Fresh perspectives always breathe new life into this beautiful program. Because when love is shared, it only grows. And weekends like this remind me why Special Love will always have a special place in our hearts. 💛

bSoleille!

Terri