The venue for The Haven, a retreat for women with cancer, offers peace and comfort in a challenging time.
With a Stage 4 metastatic cervical cancer diagnosis in 2021, and learning she might only live another three to four months, Londoner Andrea LeClair remembers the terror. “It was a nightmare when I got the news,” she says. However she was determined to beat cancer. “I said, ‘I will fight this, 1,000 per cent.’”
LeClair spent months doing medical research, found some hope from a second oncologist and followed a plan to get well, but on every level it was exhausting. “Physically, mentally, emotionally, I was in fight or flight mode,” she says. “I just needed moments to breathe. Throughout my healing journey, I found yoga, meditation, sound baths and community as integral.”
While undergoing chemotherapy, LeClair says she was looking for a retreat to rest, reflect and recharge. Finding one close to home was difficult. She realized the benefit a supportive, safe space would be for other women going through the challenge of their lives.
That’s why LeClair created The Haven, a free retreat for up to 10 women to help renew them during a weekend of gentle yoga and other wellness activities, nutritious meals and relaxation. “This will foster emotional resilience and community among women experiencing similar and sometimes isolating health journeys,” says LeClair.
LeClair has found a four-acre venue near Dashwood to hold the event, planned for April 17 to 19, 2026. She has started a GoFundMe page to raise money for The Haven. She says it was important to offer it free of charge as many families undergo financial hardship when faced with a cancer diagnosis. LeClair is also truly thankful for the support of local sponsors Rebalance Naturopathic Clinic, Jillian Summers and BP8 Fitness.
Organizer Andrea LeClair, who found yoga, meditation and community integral to her own healing journey, seeks to offer that to others.
As the months get closer, LeClair is looking forward to offering her retreat. “It’s a place where these women can really connect with themselves again,” she says. “When you’re at your weakest, most vulnerable and everything seems like a fight, we just need a moment to connect and be with people who get this. To me, this is healing.”
FOR MORE INFORMATION
The Haven
GoFundMe Link:
gofund.me/0e07bbf96
Email: lekler15@hotmail.com
