Details: January 30 – February 2, 2025
Cost: $350
Organizer: DeAndrea Dare (682) 214-4608 deandrea@amemorygrows.org
After a child dies it seems that time has stopped and yet the world keeps on moving. Our hearts break and our minds race and yet no one can see or feel that which is happening inside of us. We all grieve differently and sometimes the ways that we grieve are misunderstood by others and even by ourselves. This is why it is so important to find others who are walking a similar path who can truly relate to what we are thinking and feeling.
In the time shared during the retreats our children are celebrated and the relationship that we continue to share with them is nourished. Time is also intentionally set aside for rest, relaxation and reflection.
Parents are free to choose as many activities to participate in or as few. We understand that sometimes the time away is simply what is needed. A Licensed Professional Counselor will be leading a group session on grief that is highly encouraged for all parents to participate in.
The $350 non-refundable cost includes all lodging with beautiful accommodations in Fort Worth, TX, programming costs (includes all materials for remembrance activities, rituals, and Licensed Professional Counselor) as well as 7 meals. The only thing that is not covered is the cost of whatever the parent/s decide to do during the free night.
Due to a generous grant a large part of the retreat cost is being underwritten.
This retreat is dedicated to the life and legacy of Nathaniel Henry Lin. Nathan was a smart, funny, joyful, loving, faithful, goofy little boy who was filled with enthusiasm and spirit- especially when cheering on his TCU Horned Frogs or Texas Rangers! Nathan loved Star Wars; Legos; chess; Pokémon; Hotwheels; dancing like a ninja; Beethoven’s 9th Symphony; drawing; all things chocolate and Chick Fil A. His Kindergarten teacher said he was the most “spiritual” child she had ever taught and his strong, unwavering faith helped guide our family on the difficult journey we faced after his diagnosis. In many ways, Nathan was incredibly wise and insightful, but also saw the world through the innocent eyes of a child. When he was 7 years old, he was diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme, an aggressive, malignant brain tumor for which there is no cure and limited treatment options. He underwent surgery, a course of radiation and a clinical trial of chemotherapy. His courageous battle lasted for 10 months. He died at home in his mother’s arms, surrounded by his family on June 3, 2016. Nathan is forever 8 years old, but the “ripple” of his short but significant life continues to touch and enrich the lives of his family, friends and others who have learned his story.
Nathan’s mother Cathy has been involved with A Memory Grows from its inception and has moved into a leadership role within the organization. Nathan’s parents both attended the very first Older Child Loss Retreat. Cathy says, “A Memory Grows has been a lifeline in the journey we have been forced to walk since Nathan’s death. It has given me a safe place to grieve, share, find fellowship and support and to learn how to continue to parent a child who has run ahead to heaven.”
Please use the form below (plus $5.00 processing fee) or send a check for the $295.00 to pay the non-refundable retreat fee after completing your reservation form to hold your spot.
*Although we do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions we may not be able to meet all needs. Please let us know at the time of registration if special needs are requested.*
**Due to the limited number of rooms at our retreats, the registration fee must be paid within 48 hours of registration to hold your spot. Limited scholarship assistance is available upon request of an application. If you need more time to pay the registration fee, please contact us at the time of registration.**
Checks can be mailed to
A Memory Grows
P.O. Box 34282
Fort Worth, TX 76162
Schedule
Thursday:
Arrive after 4:30
Introductions, Tour and Dinner at 5:30
After Dinner Activity
Friday:
Breakfast
Mom/Dad Separate Activity
Lunch
Afternoon Group Outing/Activity
Dinner
Painting With Your Heart
Cookout/Smores
Saturday:
Breakfast
Legacy Activity
Lunch
Group Counseling Session focused on Grief and Relationships
Free Evening to chat, play games, do activities, swim, sit by the fire pit, etc.
Sunday:
Breakfast
Closing Group Ritual
Checkout at 11:00