Second Light
Where Healing Meets Hope
About Second Light
Second Light offers peaceful retreats for cancer warriors that celebrate God's grace. Our purpose is rooted in restoration, reverence, and radiant living.
Our Mission
Second Light supports individuals at every stage of the cancer journey — from recent diagnosis, through treatment, and into recovery. We believe this chapter, though deeply challenging, can also be a doorway to renewal, reflection, and growth.
Our Promise
We are here to provide sacred spaces where healing meets beauty—where those touched by cancer can breathe deeply, rest fully, and rediscover joy in the embrace of nature and divine love.
What We Offer
We host nature-based wellness retreats designed to nurture the body, calm the mind, and uplift the spirit.
Each retreat includes:
• Expert-led programming in health, mindfulness, movement, and nutrition
• Supportive community of people who understand the cancer experience
• Peaceful environments that encourage rest, reflection, and healing
Each session is carefully crafted to understand the unique needs of those navigating cancer journeys, providing gentle yet transformative experiences accessible to all fitness levels.
You Are Not Alone
Participants gather in small, compassionate groups of people who understand the cancer journey intimately.
Intimate Group Size
Attendance is limited to 16 cancer warriors, allowing for a uniquely low participant-to-contributor ratio that fosters deep connection and individualized support throughout the week.
Share stories, find strength in connection, and build lasting friendships with others who truly understand. Our community becomes a source of ongoing support long after the retreat ends.
Sanctuary in Nature
Retreat centers selected for their natural beauty and profound capacity to encourage rest, reflection, and healing.
Expanding Our Vision
As our vision continues to grow, we're expanding our horizons beyond Central America. We're currently exploring new retreat locations across Europe and the United States, seeking partners and communities who share our commitment to integrative healing and mindful connection with nature.
Every setting is meticulously chosen not just for beauty, but for the restorative energy it provides. From Costa Rica's Blue Zone to other sacred locations, nature becomes your medicine.
Partner With Us: If you or your organization feel aligned with this mission, we'd love to connect and explore how we can bring this healing work to more people and places around the world.
Who It's For
Our retreats welcome individuals at every stage of the cancer journey — from recent diagnosis, through active treatment, to living in survivorship. If you are navigating life with or after cancer and seeking space to rest, process, and reconnect with hope, you are welcome here.
Recently Diagnosed
Finding your footing after receiving news that changes everything. We provide gentle support as you process this new chapter.
Active Treatment
Navigating the challenges and emotions of ongoing medical care while maintaining hope and strength for the journey ahead.
Survivorship
Rebuilding and rediscovering yourself beyond treatment, embracing a new understanding of life and what truly matters.
Begin Your Second Light
Healing doesn't end with treatment. Whether you're seeking rest, connection, or a fresh start — there is space for you here.
You Are Welcome Here
Regardless of where you are in your journey, our community embraces you with open arms and understanding hearts. Every story matters, every struggle is honored, and every step forward is celebrated.
Financial Accessibility
Second Light is committed to removing financial barriers. Thanks to generous sponsors and corporate partners, we offer a limited number of fully sponsored spots to our warriors regardless of financial circumstances.
"It is my deepest hope that one day, every cancer warrior's journey to healing will be completely supported through the compassion of our partners." — Penelope Sarnataro
We believe healing should never be limited by ability to pay. Through our comprehensive sponsorship program, qualified participants receive full coverage for retreat attendance, meals, accommodation, and programming.
Cancer Warriors Retreat
A week-long, all-inclusive retreat designed specifically for people navigating cancer and survivorship. Experience deep restoration in Costa Rica's most healing environment — nestled in the heart of one of the world's five Blue Zones.
La Tierra Encantada
Tierra Encantada, which means "enchanted land" in Spanish, is an eco-sustainable retreat center nestled in the hills near Nosara. The venue emphasizes harmony with the land — using natural building materials, solar power, recycled water systems, and rainwater collection.
Blue Zone Location
Our retreat center is surrounded by lush jungle, abundant rivers, mountains, and breathtaking ocean views. This Garden of Eden setting provides the perfect environment where cancer warriors will embark on a nourishing journey of reset and deep rest.
Comfortable casitas, an infinity pool with panoramic views, a dedicated spa (Vie Harmony) offering advanced therapies, and multiple spaces for movement and reflection create an atmosphere of complete restoration.
View Property and Casitas
What's Included
Your Expert Guides
Cancer Wellness Retreat
Our retreats are designed for individuals navigating any stage of the cancer journey. We provide two pathways to join our healing community, ensuring financial circumstances never prevent someone from accessing our transformative retreat experience.
Am I Eligible?
- Who can attend?
Our retreats welcome individuals who have been recently diagnosed, are in active treatment, or are living in survivorship.
- Is travel included?
Yes, for sponsored participants we assist with travel coordination and provide support for getting to Costa Rica.
- Can you accommodate my dietary needs?
Absolutely — all meals are custom prepared and we accommodate all dietary requirements and restrictions.
- What can I expect?
Because it is nestled within the jungle, the environment is very natural and vibrant. You may encounter butterflies, birds, and the occasional frog, monkey, or other small creatures. The climate is warm and humid year-round, which nourishes the rich landscape but can also feel intense at times. The property itself is tranquil and inviting, though it does involve steps, uneven terrain, and is not handicap accessible. We share this with you so you can come prepared—both to fully enjoy the breathtaking beauty and to feel comfortable during your stay.
- Will medical support be available?
We have established partnerships with local medical facilities and are actively seeking full-time physicians to volunteer on-site.
