The Harvey family at the Orlando Legacy Retreat® presented by Kendra Scott

Tarah didn’t have any expectations going into the retreat and was surprised by just how impactful the experience was. “We don’t put a timeline on what ‘terminal’ means,” she said, “but because of our IoH Legacy Retreat®, I have done things for my children that they will always have.”

Opportunities Tarah has taken advantage of include recording a Legacy Video™ for her children and focusing on ways she can live more intentionally.  “I am being more present with my children. I thought I was doing that beforehand, but since coming back from our retreat, it has been on a whole different level.”  She elaborated, “I also work to remember that I have cancer but cancer doesn’t have me. I won’t let it steal my good days–it has taken a lot, but I won’t let it take away my happiness with my family.”

Making lifelong memories at Disney

Besides the resources and support, Tarah appreciated how IoH cared for her whole family.  She especially noted how helpful it was for her husband Sam, whom she calls “my unsung hero,” to gain suggestions for his own role and connect with other caregivers.  Volunteers were on hand to make sure the children were spoiled in royal Disney fashion, and all in all, every need was met. Braxton, just eight months old at the time of his mother’s diagnosis, has never known anything different, but three days at theme parks gave a respite of fun and normalcy to the family’s life.  Frankly, with escalating costs of treatment, these special memories would have not been made without the thoughtful attention to detail of IoH and the generosity of Kendra Scott. Memories like Hannah “living her best life,” a description Tarah gave with the light laugh of a mom recalling her child’s joy.

Tarah and Hannah with Kendra Scott in Orlando

When asked what she hopes for families who attend a future retreat, Tarah’s wishes are simple: “Come with open hearts and open minds. Allow the volunteers and staff to help you.  Take advantage of resources, and most of all, be ready to have fun. At the parks, I was not thinking about cancer. It is hard to get away from it, but I really did. In those moments, cancer was the furthest thing from my mind. I was watching my daughter meet Cinderella and I literally was just there enjoying the moment.” She paused and added, “And it was amazing.”

Angie Howell graduated from Davidson College, where she met Inheritance of Hope Co-Founder Kristen Grady Milligan the first week of their freshman year. In 2010, the two former hallmates got back in touch, and Angie became involved in IoH shortly afterwards. Angie has served as a Legacy Retreat® volunteer, Coordinator, and now, as a Content Contributor, Angie helps tell the stories of IoH. She is constantly inspired by the people she meets in the IoH family. Read more Inheritance of Hope blogposts >>