After overcoming the tumultuous 2020, we knew going into the retreat that our theme would be resilience. With some of our attendees having faced their limb loss in the midst of COVID-19, they were asked to not only face the trauma of losing a limb, but to do it in the pandemic era of limited personal interaction and even less resources than usual for amputees. It was their resilience that had them allowed to pass through something tragic, and yet still seek out forward momentum and the pursuit of growth in the form of our retreat.

And once we were actually able to gather in person, the theme of resilience rang true with every challenge our attendees faced. They showed no fear, hesitation, or even an ounce of self consciousness when they were taught to how to hula. They excitedly charged into the ocean to go canoe surfing. They all plunged into icy cold tub for a rejuvenating ice bath. They pushed themselves to their limits and challenged each other in the workouts. They crafted beautiful lei p’os (flower crowns) with the intention of self love. And of course, they charged into waves and learned how to surf.