April 23-26, 2026
Eating disorders – some have called them the hardest battle any human could face, and we agree. They are hard for those in the fight, and they are hard on the friends and family members caring for the fighter. Both need support. Both are hurting in their own ways. Both need reminders of truth. And both need a moment to breathe and just be.
If you find yourself in either the Fighter or Friends and Family role, our Recovery Retreat is for you. Take a few days to come away to beautiful Amelia Island. Be surrounded by others walking a similar road; hear from incredible speakers on topics surrounding recovery, relationships, healing, practical tips, and more; enjoy times of refreshment, rest, and renewal; and be prepared to come home recharged, refocused, and renewed.
Costs
We recognize that eating disorder recovery is expensive and financially draining.
For that reason, we’ve worked very hard to keep expenses as low as possible. We are able to offer the retreat to you at a cost of $400/person. This cost includes lunches, dinners, snacks; all sessions; a t-shirt; session materials; and a recreational outing activity. Outside of this retreat cost, your responsibilities will include travel and hotel/lodging (option below), for which we’ve tried to negotiate the best price possible. If staying within the room block of our reserved hotel, breakfast is included in your room rate.
Our retreat will begin on Thursday evening at 7:00 pm with a casual meet and greet time. The retreat will conclude on Sunday at 3:30 pm. Sessions on Friday and Saturday will be held off-site of the hotel at the beautiful Amelia Chapel at the Omni Resort. Please plan transportation from the hotel accordingly. There will likely be many attendees there with vehicles, so ride-sharing is highly possible.
Please note that hotel accommodations are secured outside of this registration (see below). Rooms at the discounted rate are available to us to book through Tuesday, March 24th. After that time, they will be available on a case-by-case basis at a non-guaranteed rate, according to what the hotel allows.
Testimonies
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"This retreat was just what I needed as a supporter. The information I obtained and am now able to use is so helpful to me and in turn will help me be an even better supporter. Everything was well thought out and planned. The BYB staff is top-notch! Y’all are making a huge impact on the lives of those fighting and for His kingdom. May He richly bless you in return for all that you’re pouring into others!"
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"I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity and am prepared to pursue recovery more intentionally now that i've attended. All of the staff remained attentive and supportive throughout the entire duration of the retreat - I have such a deep appreciation and respect fo reach one of you. Thank you for being who you are!"
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"This retreat is marked as a changing point in my life and in my recovery. After attending this retreat, I am renewed in my choice to chose recovery, no matter how hard it is and no matter how long it takes. Also for the FIRST time, a member of my family has understood how to deal with me and my eating disorder. We used to only fight about the topic of needing to eat food. Now she lovingly encourages me, believes in me and is there to speak the hard truth that I desperately need to hear. Thank you. You have saved my life for the eating disorder."
Accommodations
Overnight accommodations are being offered at a discounted rate at the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Amelia Island if you book before Tuesday, March 24th. Please use the link below to book your room. Parking is complimentary for those staying at the hotel.
FAQs
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We recognize that’s not a question, but it raises all the emotions and all kinds of questions. This is an eating disorder recovery retreat. The last thing we want to do is enable the eating disorder during our time together. On the flip side, we don’t want “food” to be a deterrent to anyone needing support. Understanding that eating disorders are competitive and twisted and terribly complicated, we want to be proactive in setting everyone up for success and safety. We ask for your full support of the strong framework we establish and accountability to keep yourself – and others who are trying to do the right thing – safe.
A complimentary breakfast is provided by the hotel each morning. There will be a variety of options available to you to adequately cover your needs. You’ll complete this on your own, prior to arrival of the first sessions of the day. Staff will be available for support and to ensure that you are fueling your body properly.
Snacks will be pre-packaged and distributed for you to eat on breaks and/or fellowship groups. Support and accountability will be available.
Lunch and dinner will be plated for you in accordance to your meal plan. We will work with your dietitian to plate your food specifically to your individual needs. If you are not currently working with a dietitian, our Charis dietitians will assist you in determining what you need. The expectation is that you will complete all plated meals, since we are ensuring that amounts are appropriate. Support and accountability will be available to you throughout the meals.
Menus will be emailed to your dietitian in advance for you to work through together, as they deem appropriate. Vegetarian options can be provided if required. We are unable to accommodate vegan diets. Food allergies will be honored if they are medically necessary and must be confirmed through your dietitian or medical documentation.
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This retreat is a recovery retreat for those with eating disorders (Fighters) and we also have a track for those who are supporting them (Friends & Family). Wherever you are and whatever recovery looks like for you right now is what we want for you.
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We hope to be able to answer yes, but scholarships are dependent upon those who provide funding for them. Please inquire if there is a need, and we will advise as to funding at such time.
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We suggest you dress for comfort. Please be modest in attire selections. Weather in Florida is unpredictable, so check your weather app before packing. Bring a jacket or sweater, as meeting rooms are sometimes chilly. If you plan to walk on the beach, know that even in mild weather, the wind coming off the water can feel chilly. Be sure to pack your Bible, toiletries, medications, etc. We will attend a worship service together on Sunday. However, it’s an “Island church,” and anything goes. Pants, jeans, etc. are typically the norm.
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The hotel has made this an option to us in the past. When you register with the hotel, you will be able to view all dates for which that rate is available. If the dates you’re seeking are not available, please contact their Sales Department to request an extension of your dates at 904-206-5605.
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We cannot wait to see you at the retreat. You can register by clicking this link below: