Testimonials

“Never in my life did I ever think I would go to a “sleep away” camp at 48 years old! When I got home after this very busy weekend, my kids couldn’t get me to be quiet, I was so excited to share all the things I experienced and the most wonderful friends I made. Polar Bear dip? Who me? You bet I did. Climb a wall? You bet I at least tried! Archery? Bullseye! Canoeing? All the way around the little island! And the best…..was sharing our stories and feeling “normal”. I can’t wait for September!”
-Debbie


“It was a great experience to go to The Beat Retreat last year. Before going to the camp I hadn’t met anyone who had the same type of heart condition as me, so it was great to get to know other people who know what it’s like to have a heart condition and to hear what they’ve been through and know that you aren’t the only one.”
-Shannon

“What I liked most about last year was meeting wonderful, friendly people who, like me, are energetic and enjoy the idea of coming together and supporting each other. The activities, food, events and coordinators are awesome. It’s people like these that show us just how awesome it can be regardless of what we were born with. I can’t wait for this year’s activities!”
-Doug

“In any setting, I’m always amazed to be around people who have had similar medical experiences, and persevered. Camping with them brings our collective strength to a whole new level!”
-Erin

“As a participant at the inaugural Beat Retreat, I found it was a great opportunity to meet, interact and share stories with others, who like myself, have lived with cardiac challenges, setbacks and triumphs all of our lives. It was a great experience. Due to a previous commitment I was unable to attend last year, but I am certainly hoping to come back again this year.”
-Wayne

“I got to try something new – archery! I saw beautiful sunsets and watched polar bear dippers (I didn’t join them, though). We also learned what Elvis liked to eat.”
-Peter

“I thoroughly enjoyed experiencing the Beat Retreat, as it was my first time camping and it proved to me that people with heart conditions can handle the outdoors, no problem. Never a dull moment – there was always something to do at Camp Quin-Mo-Lac, be it low ropes, initiatives, rock climbing, yoga, canoeing, arts & crafts or hiking. The campfires were a blast. It’s always a great experience to connect with other people who have CHD and see what they have achieved in life. The Beat Retreat is a wonderful setting to forge new friendships.”
-Katherine


“What a blast. I had a ton of fun, made new friends, and got to do things I hadn’t done for a long time. I felt like a teenager again! Who’d of thought an old guy like me could make it to the top of the climbing wall? What an awesome feeling.”
-Ted

“I had a great time – came home on a high. I loved the climbing wall, ‘passing the plank’ while balancing – or trying to balance – on a beam, and roasting marshmallows over a roaring campfire. I also got a real kick watching others sing songs and generally have a great time. A great first Beat Retreat!”
-Shelagh

“Amazing….that’s the first word that came out of my mouth when everyone ask how the Beat Retreat was. Even though the age group varied we all acted like kids on Christmas morning. I personally loved the archery the most and the campfires. I can’t wait to go back…counting the days!!!”
-Toby