By Janet Lee, February 2026 Ski & Ride alum
My Send It retreat in February 2026 was more than just a ski trip—it was a deeply healing, transformative experience that I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.
One of the most powerful moments for me was standing at the top of the mountain, about to snowboard for the very first time. I was scared, unsure, and completely out of my comfort zone—but I wasn’t alone. I was surrounded by warriors, survivors, and the most incredible instructors who were also our biggest cheerleaders. In that moment, I realized how much strength I’ve built over the past two years since my diagnosis. If I could get through that, I could get down this mountain. And I did.
What made this trip so special was the community. We all clicked so naturally—it felt easy, safe, and genuine from the start. Whether we were laughing over falls, sharing stories at the dining table, or opening up about our highs and lows from the day, every moment felt meaningful. There’s something so powerful about being surrounded by people who just get it without needing to explain.
The house we stayed in became a space for connection and comfort. It was spacious, warm, and full of life—always stocked with amazing food and snacks, and always filled with conversation, laughter, and reflection. The balance of adventure and relaxation was perfect. We were challenged, but we were also cared for.
Being in nature, especially in the snow capped mountains, brought a sense of peace I didn’t realize I needed. It gave me space to breathe, to reflect, and to reconnect with myself outside of my cancer journey. It reminded me that I am still capable of learning, growing, and experiencing joy in new ways.
One of my favorite moments was riding through fresh powder after the blizzard—feeling the snow beneath me, the snow pelting on my face, hearing everyone cheering each other on, and just being fully present. It was pure joy. Snow tubing was the best way to close out the retreat activities.
Coming back home, I’ve carried the spirit of “Send It” with me—saying yes to things that challenge me, trusting myself more, and leaning into community. It reminded me that healing doesn’t happen alone, and that there is so much strength in shared experiences.
Send It, to me, means stepping into life fully…even when it’s uncomfortable, even when it’s uncertain. It means choosing courage, connection, and joy. I’m so grateful I had the opportunity to be part of this experience, to meet such incredible people, and to discover a new version of myself along the way.
