At our Camp Gardenia, we embrace the theme of new beginnings through the enchanting symbolism of gardenias. As the colder months approach, our groups of young adults gather in warm, inviting spaces to share their stories of resilience and hope. Each day features activities centered around the renewal and honoring of our hardships in self-resilience, much like gardenias blooming even in challenging conditions, mirroring the strength within each survivor. Workshops invite campers to fill their buckets by planting seeds in pots adorned with personal affirmations, representing their journeys toward renewal and taking in the scenery of the rural Oregon coast. As the camp culminates in a heartfelt evening by the fire, everyone reflects on their shared experiences, united by the promise of blossoming anew, just like the gardenias that thrive against the odds. We thrive on entering the world with equal opportunities and are grateful for our following sponsors who help us on that path.
Our founder, Kailey Wilkens, created this camp as a way to honor those who have helped her and her cancer journey of the past. Like many former cancer patients, she's found how she wished to create a more intimate experience all about personal self growth after trauma.
Through yoga, art therapy, nature walks, and quiet moments of reflection, we create a space where you can rediscover the joy of simply being. It’s not about fighting cancer 24/7; it’s about honoring the person you are right now, in this moment, with all the courage, resilience, and beauty you bring.
Our retreats are small—intimate, even—and intentionally designed so that you can build real connections with others who are walking similar paths. We foster an environment of understanding, free from the clinical coldness that often surrounds the cancer experience. You’ll be supported by a team of counselors and healers who have deep experience in working with young women through cancer, but more importantly, you’ll be surrounded by others who truly get it—because I’ve been there too.
This is not your typical cancer retreat. It’s a space where you can feel seen, heard, and, most importantly, cared for in a way that feels human. I created Lumen because I wanted to offer something new—something that feels less like a program and more like a gentle invitation to heal, connect, and grow.
I hope you’ll consider joining us. You don’t have to do this alone. Let Lumen be a place where you can find peace, light, and the strength to move forward—one small, beautiful step at a time.
Levi Rubin and I have gone to school together since 2nd grade, as we both admired the arts and had passions to pursue them. He had alovely sense of humor and played thesaxophone during the most random times. He was accomplished and anticipatined attending UC Davis for Japanese Studies.
Gracey Marek was the most gorgeous girl in our grade, as she had passions of volleyball and through her treatment dreamed of becoming like the nurses that took care of her. She was planning on attending University of Hawaii Manoa for Nursing and spent the rest of her life with her family.
Need help or assistance? Our team is standing by to make sure you get the help you need. Whether you have questions or want updates on an order or delivery details, we're ready to help!
