ABOUT THE DNA SURPRISE RETREAT

September 19-22, 2024 | Phoenix, AZ

DNA SURPRISE RETREAT

FOR NPES, DONOR-CONCEIVED PEOPLE, & ADOPTEES WHO HAVE EXPERIENCED DNA SURPRISES

The DNA Surprise Retreat is for adults experiencing the grief and shock that can only be felt following a DNA discovery. 

Join us for four special days in Phoenix, AZ. You will find community with people who have similar experiences, learn skills to cope with a DNA surprise, and most importantly, discover how to step into your power and heal.

AGENDA

DAY 1

WELCOME!

Thursday, September 19

4PM: Arrivals

6PM: Retreat Welcome

6:30PM: Dinner + Socializing

DAY 2

Friday, September 20

8AM: Breakfast

10AM: Session 1 – Inner Child, Inner Healing: Tapping into your inner child and parts work to heal 

12PM: Lunch

1:30PM Session 2 – Processing Betrayal Trauma: How betrayal affects us and how we can begin to trust again

3:30PM: Session 3 – Movement & Sound: Restorative yoga and sound healing

6PM: Dinner + Fun

DAY 3

Saturday, September 21

8AM: Breakfast

10AM: Session 1 – Just Breathe: Breathwork for emotional and trauma healing

12PM: Lunch

1:30PM Session 2 – Healing the Past, Embracing the Present, Shaping the Future: Understanding generational cycles and breaking them to build a healthier life

3:30PM: Session 3 – What’s next?

6PM: Dinner + Fun

DAY 4

FOND FAREWELLS

Sunday, September 22

8AM: Breakfast + Goodbyes

11AM: Checkout

Agenda subject to change.

Bunkbed


Bottom bunks will go first – register now!

Includes DNA Surprise Retreat registration plus:

  • A shared room (no more than 3 attendees to a room)
  • Shared bathroom
  • 3-night accommodations September 19-22

Shared Cabin


Enjoy comfortable accommodations with fellow attendees.

Includes DNA Surprise Retreat registration plus:
 
  • Twin or Queen bed (based on availability)
  • Shared bedroom (most are 2 to a room; no more than three attendees in a room)
  • Shared bathroom
  • 3-night accommodations September 19-22

Private Room


Enjoy a semi-private room in a shared cabin.

Includes DNA Surprise Retreat registration plus:
 
  • A private room in a 2 bedroom cabin
  • Queen or King bed (based on availability)
  • Shared bathroom
  • 3-night accommodations September 19-22

Private Cabin


Want a cabin to yourself? This option is for you. Space is limited, so register today!

Includes DNA Surprise Retreat registration plus:

  • Your own private cabin
  • King or Queen bed (based on availability)
  • Private bathroom
  • 3-night accommodations September 19-22

ABOUT THE HOSTS

ALEXIS HOURSELT, NPE

Alexis had her DNA surprise in 2021 when she learned the man she’d called “Dad” for 35 years was not her biological father. She also learned that she is not a multi-ethnic Mexican woman, as she was raised, but African American. She swiftly turned her pain into helping others with her podcast, DNA Surprises.

DEBBIE OLSON, ADOPTEE

Debbie was adopted by her stepdad at a young age and was told her biological father didn’t want her. As an adult, she was told her biological father had died. After taking a DNA test she found her biological father alive, as well as two half siblings. Debbie created DNA Surprise Network and is a life coach helping others heal from similar experiences. 

ALL ARE WELCOME HERE

The DNA Surprise Retreat welcomes individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of race, sexual orientation, gender expression, or religious or political beliefs. We recognize and embrace the fact that DNA surprises affect people from many intersections across society. We are united by our unique experiences and believe in the power of community and healing. Everyone who shares this belief is welcome here. 

SUBSCRIBE TO THE DNA SURPRISE RETREAT NEWSLETTER TO KEEP UP WITH THE LATEST INFORMATION!

The DNA Surprise Retreat hosts are not licensed mental health professionals. The DNA Surprise Retreat is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your mental health professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have. 

© 2022-2024 DNA Surprises LLC. All Rights Reserved.