South Carolina

Feb 26 - 28, 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 South Carolina

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South Carolina

Our South Carolina While We’re Waiting Weekends are held at Asbury Hills Camp and Retreat Center, located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the town of Cleveland. Asbury Hills features cozy private accommodations in their two lodges and over 2000 acres of mountains, hills, creeks, waterfalls, forests, and lakes. The Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport is only 50 minutes away. This event is open to both single parents and married couples. Please refer to our Purity Policy, found under the "About Us" tab. Lodging at Asbury Hills for Friday and Saturday nights and all meals from Friday night through Sunday morning are provided, and there is no cost to attend this event.

Led by

Mark and Jennifer Martin

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Mark and Jennifer Martin

Mark and Jennifer Martin's youngest son Ethan, unexpectedly went to Heaven by suicide on January 26, 2020, at the age of 15. They have two married daughters, Lauren and Grace, and one grandson named Ethan James. In their free time, they enjoy spending time with their girls and their families. They also love to travel. They enjoy being a part of WWW and giving hope to grieving parents.

Led by

Jeff and Wende Gaikema

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Jeff and Wende Gaikema

Jeff and Wende lost their oldest son, Matthew, unexpectedly to suicide in February of 2018.  He was 22 at the time.  They are blessed with two other sons. Jeff retired at the end of 2023, while Wende works as a leadership coach. Together, they enjoy hiking, biking, and kayaking. They are thankful for the hope from God and the guidance that other parents who had lost a child gave them. Jeff and Wende appreciate the opportunity to serve with While We’re Waiting, helping bereaved parents as others have helped them. 

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 Feb 26th - South Carolina - 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.