Callanish creates a healing space for people who have been irrevocably changed by cancer. It inspires those who are living with and/or dying from cancer to reconnect with the essentials of life; and in doing so, to feel soothed, strengthened and restored.

At the heart of Callanish is a weeklong retreat that provides a gentle catalyst for revitalising the spirit. After more than 20 years and close to 100 retreats, Callanish has evolved into a far-reaching community deeply rooted in the fundamentals of what it means to be human.

The first Callanish retreat was held in 1995 by a volunteer team of multidisciplinary oncology professionals. In 1997, charitable status was granted, and weeklong retreats have been held four times a year ever since. In 2004, a home space in Vancouver was created to inspire the ongoing work of past retreat participants and their loved ones. The Callanish community has continued to evolve organically, responding to the needs of its members and guided by intuitive leadership.

Janie Brown, RN, MSN, MA (Psych) is the Executive Director and co-founder of Callanish. Janie has worked with people with cancer and their families for over 30 years, including several years at the BC Cancer Agency as a clinical nurse specialist and over 25 years in her oncology counselling practice.

The Film
I’m Still Here: Young Adults Living Life with Recurrent Cancer

“I’m Still Here” is a short film that follows six younger adult participants on a three-day Callanish retreat, as they are supported by a team of compassionate professionals who guide them through a healing process.

The Retreat

The retreat is a five-night experience of immersion into personal reflection and community engagement emerging with a renewed connection with life. Participants experience a foundational shift towards inner peace and happiness, a new perspective that carries them forward.

Retreats, Meditation, Counselling, Massage, Younger Adults Support Circle (19-40ish years old)