The annual retreat for breast cancer survivors, known as Camp Breastie, has grown significantly in popularity. Taking place in Pennsylvania, this four-day event attracts hundreds of attendees each year. Due to its success, organizers plan to introduce a West Coast location next year to accommodate more participants.
On the last evening at Camp Breastie, participants enjoy a dance party called Breastival, celebrating their journey and resilience.
Unique Start to the Day
The daily schedule begins with a lakeside venting session. Here, women gather to write their troubles on small stones before casting them into the water. It is a symbolic act meant to release burdens. Shelby Jones, 33, from New York City, wrote down ‘Anger,’ while Emily Tout, 30, a single mother with metastatic disease, chose ‘Fear.’ Nancy Antoine, a survivor from Davie, Fla., encourages participants to express themselves through scream therapy.
Antoine explains, ‘Just release what you’re carrying with you, and let the lake receive it.’ The therapeutic screaming is a key part of the emotional healing process.
Expanding the Reach
The camp has gathered 500 women, including survivors, those living with advanced conditions, and women at high risk. The need for a supportive community like Camp Breastie is increasing as more than 350,000 women in the U.S. are diagnosed with breast cancer annually. A notable rise in cases among younger women contributes to the camp’s appeal.
Demand is high for this retreat, evidenced by the rapid sell-out of tickets. In 2025, tickets were gone in two weeks, and in less than two hours this year, according to organizers.
Credit: Adrianna Newell for The New York Times