One Unforgettable Week That Transformed a Family’s Life

“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” Psalm 133:1 

When Victoria brought her daughter, Taliyah, to their first Joni and Friends Family Retreat, she couldn’t imagine the transformation about to happen in her heart and family. Taliyah, born with Treacher Collins syndrome, chronic kidney disease, and other medical complexities, takes on life with strength and determination.  

“She’s my super kid,” Victoria says proudly. “She’s been through so much, but she keeps going.” 

Though Victoria wants to foster Taliyah’s confidence and independence, she also holds her daughter close. So on the first day of retreat, when Taliyah met her volunteer buddy and confidently turned to her mom and said, “Bye,” then walked away without hesitation, the moment hit Victoria hard. 

“I sat on the porch and cried,” she remembers. “We had never been apart besides school. It was overwhelming, but it was the beginning of something new for both of us.” 

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 

While Taliyah thrived, making new friends and enjoying new independence, Victoria found herself surrounded by support, rest, and true connection. She especially appreciated spending time with her lodge host, a woman she affectionately remembers as “the cookie lady.” 

“She sat and talked with me like she had known me forever,” Victoria recalls. “She answered questions, shared wisdom, and made me feel like I had a second mom. I don’t even eat sweets, but I ate her cookies all week and even brought a bag home. Those conversations and moments meant more to me than I can explain.” 

Victoria also found the worship at Family Retreat to be deeply impactful. As she says, 

“The worship did something to me. There was one song that moved me so much, I went home and looked up the lyrics so I could learn it and sing it at home. The words just stayed with me.” 

Lasting Encouragement 

It wasn’t only the worship songs that stayed with Victoria after she and Taliyah returned home. They also went home with a new community that felt like family, knowing that they are not alone.  

Victoria has stayed in touch with other retreat moms, gathering for playdates, swimming lessons, and ongoing fellowship. The retreat experience created lasting friendships and a deep sense of belonging for both her and Taliyah. 

“I just want to say thank you to Joni and Friends. Thank you for all you’ve done and all you continue to do—for giving families like mine experiences we may not otherwise have, simply because our kids have different abilities,” says Victoria. 

When asked what she’d say to another family considering Family Retreat for the first time, her answer is clear:  

“Please come. It’s not just a vacation. It’s a place that gives you rest, hope, and a whole new perspective. You’ll never want to miss it again.”