Cayman Islands Hospital Launches Cancer Survivor Retreat

Cancer survivors in the Cayman Islands now have a new place to heal, connect, and celebrate life beyond their diagnosis.

Health City Cayman Islands hosted its first Cancer Survivors Wellness Retreat last month at VIDA Cayman Islands in West Bay. The full-day oceanfront program brought together survivors and caregivers for healing activities designed specifically for life after treatment.

Nurse practitioner Abigail Ciampa from Boston's Dana-Farber Cancer Institute led the retreat's centerpiece session, "Living Well Beyond a Cancer Diagnosis: Understanding Survivorship." Her presentation gave survivors practical tools for navigating the often-overlooked challenges that continue long after treatment ends.

The program blended gentle movement, mindfulness practices, nourishing meals, and a relaxing sound bath with reflective stations. Participants also connected with representatives from the Breast Cancer Foundation and Cancer Society, creating a network of support that extends far beyond hospital walls.

Brooklyn Montgomery, who recently healed from stage two breast cancer, found the retreat through her treatment experience at Health City. "All the doctors were amazing, so I figured I should follow suit and come see what they've got to offer here," she said.

Dr. Vineetha Binoy, Senior Medical Oncology Specialist at Health City, explained the thinking behind the retreat. "Cancer treatment or a diagnosis is a journey, and you need people who walk along with you even well after you finish your treatment," she said.

The Ripple Effect

The retreat addresses a growing need as cancer survival rates improve. More than 75 percent of cancer survivors in the U.S. are over 60, with half over 70, making wellness programming increasingly vital for healthy aging after treatment.

Rebekah Brooks, Health City's Head of Marketing and Sales, emphasized the community support survivors can access. "I really want people to know that there's a community there for them," she said, hoping attendees left "feeling really special and knowing that they are really loved."

The event launched through Health City Cares, the hospital's initiative focused on extending care beyond treatment through wellness programs, education, and community partnerships. The program recognizes that healing doesn't end when treatment does.

Health City plans to offer more survivor-focused wellness events, building on the success of this inaugural retreat and creating ongoing spaces for connection and growth.