Bailey’s Family Retreat Story of Belonging and New Experiences
“Encourage one another daily, as long as it is called ‘Today’…”
Hebrews 3:13
Bailey is 30 years old, full of joy, and she travels around the state of Louisiana and even the U.S. representing some of her favorite sports including bowling, horseshoes, swimming, and more. For years, Bailey and her mom, Lorna, have traveled near and far to make sure Bailey meets new friends and uses her God given talents and abilities.
But Bailey’s life isn’t easy. She was born with Williams syndrome, a rare genetic condition marked by developmental delays and medical challenges, some which can be life threatening. Given the challenges they face, Bailey and Lorna have often felt like no one really understands what their life is like… until they discovered Family Retreat.
A Place to Be Celebrated…
Lorna loves the fact that, at Family Retreat, Bailey is celebrated for who she is. She is not seen as different, just valued and loved.
As Bailey says, “My favorite part of Family Retreat is that I am brave enough to try new things here, things I never knew I could do, like rock wall climbing and drumming. And I love long walks in the woods, which add to the peace I have here. I always see Jesus at Family Retreat. Everything here reminds me of Him, and I never want to leave.”
As Bailey put it, “Family Retreat is a glimpse of heaven. I feel free and lifted up here.”
For Lorna, Family Retreat is a powerful reminder that she and Bailey are not alone.
As Lorna says, “I feel so blessed to be with other parents who struggle with the same things I do. We share without being judged. And I enjoy the quiet time. It allows me to reconnect with my thoughts and to lean on God. Bailey and I leave each year with heavy hearts knowing it will be another full year before this happens again, but we look forward to other Joni and Friends events through the year.”
Support Joni and Friends Louisiana
You can join Joni and Friends in bringing hope, rest, and joy in Jesus to families living with disability! Learn more about Joni and Friends Louisiana.
