A Life Changing Experience for Leo and His Family

By Joni and Friends|Published On: July 20, 2022|Categories: Family Retreats|

Ken Tada, Joni Eareckson Tada, Logan, Luke and Sophie, Ryan, Christen and Leo in his wheelchair posing together in front of a pond and smiling at the camera.

Ryan and Christen have four children: Logan (14), Luke and Sophie (both 12), and 7-year-old Leo, who has spina bifida.

Over the years of living with disability, their family had grown weary and worn out, each in individual ways.

Thankfully, all that changed at Family Retreat. After hearing about Joni and Friends Family Retreat for years, Ryan, Christen, and their children finally attended. Christen described their time at Retreat:

“This was our first year at the Family Retreat and it was far beyond my expectations. It was a truly incredible week for each member of our family. The service and kindness of the volunteers was honestly something we had never experienced.

Leading up to the camp our family had been feeling pretty burnt out. I didn’t realize until we were there how much my husband and I and our four children needed this time.”

Christen and Leo's buddy crouching next to Leo in his wheelchair and smiling at the camera.

Throughout Retreat, every family member found connection and support.

“I think the most valuable part of the Retreat was connecting with other families who are experiencing similar struggles and challenges. It can be so lonely and isolating for our children with disabilities, for their typical siblings, and also for us as parents.

My teen kids absolutely loved the “sib time” (sibling time) at night where they were able to hang out, play games, and laugh with other kids their age. Each of us was able to make meaningful and healing connections throughout the week, and it was a timely reminder that we have a community and support available to us.”
Christen

Another highlight? The talent show where Leo thrilled everyone with his wheelchair headstand. The crowd went wild! What an outpouring of joy and love from the volunteers and other families!

“My husband and I kept saying that the people at the Retreat were the most genuine and real people we had ever spent time with. I’m so grateful to the staff and volunteers for giving our family such a life changing experience.”
Christen

Leo doing a handstand on his wheelchair at the Family Retreat talent show.

“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”
Hebrews 6:10

You can help Joni and Friends serve more families living with disability in the name of Christ!

Your gift to Joni and Friends Fresno will make it possible for families to find refreshment at Family Retreat. Your generosity will also deliver tangible help and the Gospel to people with disabilities locally and around the world!