Georgia

Oct 01 - 03, 2027 - Weekends for Parents Touched by Suicide

The While We’re Waiting Weekends for Parents Touched by Suicide are a recent addition to the retreats we offer. We recognize that the loss of a child to suicide is unique and that there is great value in hosting retreats that specifically address this situation. This will be a very special opportunity to spend some unhurried, relaxed time with other singles and couples who have experienced the loss of a child to suicide. We have found that there is no greater comfort than the fellowship of other Christian parents who truly understand the struggles that naturally accompany this type of loss. Our retreats offer that opportunity, and also provide a safe place to work through some of the questions and struggles we experience as grieving moms and dads who have lost children to suicide … all the while focusing on the hope we have of seeing our children again one day. There is so much encouragement to be found in spending time with other parents who truly understand our grief, but who also share the hope we have in Jesus.

Come, knowing you will be surrounded by people who care, who understand, and who will pray for you. This will be a safe place, a place where we can honestly discuss our struggles, knowing we will not be judged, because every one of us has been there at one time or another. We will also share our victories, and rejoice with each other as we move along the road toward healing.

Hosted in Georgia

Learn More

Georgia

Our Georgia retreats are held in Columbus, at the home of Jed and Anne Marie Vickers in the beautiful neighborhood of Green Island Hills. With several sitting areas to choose from, a beautiful deck from which to sit and watch the birds, and a game room with miniature ping pong, foosball, and pool, there are plenty of opportunities to relax, make yourself at home, and visit with new friends. There are many interesting activities in the Columbus area, and the Vickers home is located 15 minutes from the beautiful downtown area where the riverwalk lies beside the Chattahoochee River. Bring your bike or simply take a leisurely stroll on the River walk. It's a lovely area to explore! Located an hour and a half from the Atlanta airport or 15 minutes from the Columbus airport, Columbus is easily accessible from anywhere. Lodging at the nearby Hilton Garden Inn will be provided for Friday and Saturday nights and all meals from Friday night through Sunday morning will be served at the Vickers home. There is no cost to attend this event. This event is open to both single parents and married couples. All attendees must meet the requirements of our Attendance Eligibility Policy and comply with our Housing Policy. Please review both policies in the About Us drop-down menu before registering.

Led by

Jed and Anne Marie Vickers

Learn More

Jed and Anne Marie Vickers

Jed and Anne Marie Vickers have been married since 2004 and are the parents of twins, Maudie Lee, now 18, and Sims, who went to heaven at age 14. Sims battled most of his life with epilepsy and died by suicide March 27, 2022, eight days shy of his 15th birthday.

Jed and Anne Marie find great comfort in supporting families who have lost children. They lead GriefShare at their church in Columbus, Georgia, and help facilitate a monthly support group for breaved parents called Healing Hearts. Jed is a physician's assistant in the field of cardiology and Anne Marie, a former teacher, is now a stay-at-home mom. Maudie Lee will soon graduate from high school and begin her adventure in the world.

The Vickers try to keep an eternal perspective and have grown tremendously in their faith walk since they handed their son into Jesus's arms.

Our Schedule for the Weekend (all times local)

Friday

4-5:15 PM Arrival time

5:30 pm Dinner

7:00 pm Sharing Our Stories (Part 1)

Saturday

8:00 am Breakfast

8:45 am Sharing Our Stories (Part 2)

12:00 PM Lunch

1:00 pm Sharing Our Stories (Part 3)

3:00 pm Free Time

5:30 pm Dinner

7:00 Pm Topic Time

Sunday

8:00 AM Breakfast

8:45 AM Worship and Closing Time

10:00 AM Goodbyes

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do retreats cost?

Our retreats are 100% free, though we do accept a voluntary donation at the close of the retreat. 

While We're Waiting is a 501(c)3 non-profit that operates entirely off of generous donations. 

Who can come to a retreat?
Can single parents come to a retreat?
My spouse does not want to attend. Can I still come?
It's just been a few months since my child died. Should I come to a retreat?
It's been many years since my child died ... Should I come to a retreat? 
My child died when he or she was an adult ... Should I come to a retreat?
My child was stillborn or died as an infant ... Should I come to a retreat?
How many people typically attend a retreat? 
Can I attend more than one retreat?
What if the retreat I want to attend is full?
I don't believe in God ... or I'm struggling with my faith. Can I still come?

Register for this retreat

2027 Oct 1st - Georgia - Weekends for Parents Touched by Suicide

Spouse (please review Attendance Eligibility Policy to ensure eligibility to attend)

Please provide us with the name and phone number of someone we can contact in the event of an emergency at the retreat:

Release of Liability: I agree to waive, discharge claims, and release from liability the While We're Waiting ministry from any and all liability on account of, or in any way resulting from injuries, damages, or illness (including COVID-19) even if caused by negligence of While We're Waiting. I further hold harmless While We're Waiting from any claims, damages, injuries, illnesses, or losses caused by my own negligence while a guest at this retreat site. I understand and intend that this assumption of risk and release is binding upon my heirs, executors, administrators and assigns, and includes any minors and/or guests accompanying me in activities associated with While We're Waiting events.