At Family Retreat, Families Find Belonging, Acceptance, and Love

By Joni and Friends|Published On: February 7, 2024|Categories: Family Retreats|

“What did your family enjoy most about Family Retreat?”

Our Joni and Friends Ohio team asked Kelly this question, and her answer was simple: “Connection!” Kelly and her husband Sean have two children, Libby and Cole. Cole is 16 and has a chromosome disorder that causes many other medical issues like epilepsy, nonverbal autism, hypotonia, and cognitive impairment. He will never live on his own and may require a wheelchair later in life. Cole’s family is also unsure of his life expectancy.

For families like Cole’s navigating life with disability can lead to isolation, loneliness, and experiences of rejection. But at Family Retreat, they find the belonging, acceptance, and love that they long for… Connection, just as Kelly said!

The Family Retreat Experience

When Sean, Kelly, Cole, and Libby came to their first Joni and Friends Family Retreat, they weren’t sure what to expect. But they trusted us to provide them with an unforgettable experience—and they were not disappointed! Family Retreat blessed each member of the family in a specific way.

Thanks to his volunteer buddy and the accessible environment, Cole was able to participate in activities at Family Retreat that he can’t otherwise enjoy. And while Cole had fun with his buddy, Libby got the opportunity to spend time with other typical siblings her age.

While siblings are often the greatest advocates for individuals with disabilities, they have needs of their own and thrive in the Family Retreat environment—sharing with others who understand their unique family dynamics.

Respite Brings Refreshment!

While both their children thrived among their peers, Kelly and Sean found healing rest as they reconnected with God, one another, and the Joni and Friends community. Kelly shared that the pandemic was hard on her. At home caregiving for Cole all day every day, she experienced burnout. For a time, Cole’s disabilities were all she could see in front of her.

But Family Retreat offered Kelly a safe place with other moms and caregivers who have been in her shoes and could understand and encourage her.

“God used Joni and Friends to remind me of his unconditional love for me and my family despite rejection, circumstances, and other things we experience due to disability,” says Kelly.

Sean and Kelly also had the rare opportunity to spend time together as a couple at Family Retreat, which met another need. They don’t have anyone providing respite for them when they are at home, so they struggle to find time to be together. But now they know help can be found—and there is a loving community who understands what they are going through.