The Magic of Community

We've attended Children's Craniofacial Association's retreats since 2005, and they've become an annual highlight for everyone in our family.

We had conflicts on the same weekend this year and weren't planning to attend. Peter's young brother, Jacob, did not want to miss out though.

Jacob is 14 and attended his first retreat when he was just six-months old. I still remember how much the older siblings impressed me at that retreat. I left thinking, "this is a community I want Jacob to grow up with."

When Jacob said he still wanted to attend this year, I thought, why not? CCA is just as much Jacob's community as it is Peter's. So, Jacob and I attended the retreat while Darin and Peter jammed at Summerfest in Milwaukee.

Jacob and I enjoyed reconnecting with our CCA friends and meeting new families. We left with that indescribable post-retreat high. You see, there are no words for the magic that happens when this group comes together. It's something that must be felt and experienced. It's the power of love, kindness, compassion, and community all wrapped into four days.

We missed having our family attend together, but Darin and Peter had a great weekend as well. They spent the weekend with School of Rock bands from around the world. Music is another community we’ve found to be a great source of support and inclusion for our family.

Finally, I can’t leave out our beloved hockey families. Jacob’s played since he was five years old, and we are proud to be part of this fun and supportive community. I can’t even begin to quantify the life lessons learned from this sport, and I’m grateful to be part of it.

The Win-Win of Community

Being together reminds us that we aren't alone and that others care about us. This brings joy to your life. In return, sharing your story gives someone else hope and courage.

Find your tribe and #RockYourLife!

You might also like...

Make a donation to Children's Craniofacial Association

Learn more about Peter

Learn more about Dede

Learn the "Rock Your Life Method"

Watch Peter Jam