Our Story

Bluebird has a long history of providing hope for adults with cancer. Camp Bluebird was established in Alabama in 1985 and spread to several cancer centers across the country creating a network of hope and healing for adults with cancer. Spring Lake resident Bill Timm attended a Bluebird retreat in North Carolina while fighting his own cancer battle. Inspired by the experience, Bill dreamed of bringing the same spirit of community, support, and inspiration back home.

Although Bill Timm died in 1994, his dream lived on through his wife, Robin, and their pastor, Rev. Peter Theune. Together they united four organizations – a local Church, North Ottawa Community Hospital, Hospice of North Ottawa Community, and the American Cancer Society – and the first retreat for Camp Bluebird of West Michigan was held on the shores of Lake Michigan in 1996.

In 2006 we changed our name to Bluebird Cancer Retreats of West Michigan, to better reflect the pampering and healing experience offered through our programs. While our name changed, our mission remains the same – to enhance the lives of those experiencing cancer. Just as Bluebird once gave hope to Bill, we strive to pass on that same gift of light each day.

Today Bluebird Cancer Retreats of West Michigan hosts unique retreat experiences for individuals and for survivors/caregivers. Recognizing that a diagnosis affects more than the survivor, Bluebird launched our Family Camp in 2019 to help parents and children reconnect and rediscover joy in life beyond a diagnosis. Along with our retreats, Bluebird has a variety of offerings to provide a network and resource in our community making us a key touch point for anyone experiencing cancer.

Meet the Team

Renee Denslow
Executive Director

Nicknamed “mama bear” Renee is deeply committed to making Bluebird a family for anyone interested in joining the gang. Renee loves putting the pieces together, finding the right people and ways to help build the nest at Bluebird. Renee can often be spotted walking the beach, she loves music, spontaneous dance parties, and all things fun.

#protectorofthenest
#mamabear

#mamabird
#bluebirdstrong

Tia Dumbrigue
Program Coordinator

Tia is the magic maker at Bluebird! As a survivor of stage 4 cancer, Tia knows firsthand the importance of connection and emotional support. Tia can typically be found sporting a pair of Converse tennis shoes and a hoodie from her vast collection. She is unapologetically herself and embraces everyone she meets with the same unconditional acceptance.

#tacotuesdayeveryday
#candyisafoodgroup

#furryfriendsfirst

#bluebirdstrong

Carrie Brondyke,
LMSW,CCM
Support Group Director

Quick to share her love, Carrie is kindly known as the “best” best friend to nearly everyone who knows her! She uses her masterful skills as a social worker to help make our bluebirds fly! Carrie has the most compassionate hug, the warmest smile, and she can find the fun and humor in any situation thrown her way.

#heartonhersleeve
#hopefulsw

#kindnessmatters
#bluebirdstrong

Paige Brockmyre

Gorilla Golf Event Coordinator

Fun maker extraordinaire, Paige brings positive energy and passion to everything she does. Her work at Bluebird came at a time when her best friend was diagnosed with glioblastoma, giving her a very personal connection to the cause. If you are looking for Paige, you may find her on a boat, traveling or hosting her friends and family at the best party in town!

#moverandshaker

#boatbeachfun

#topbanana

#bluebirdstrong

Sandy Lacey

Bluebird Ambassador

The bluebird is a symbol of hope, love, positivity, and renewal, which is exactly how Sandy welcomes others to the Bluebird nest. Sandy uses the experiences from her own diagnosis to help others navigate and find their voice in the process. Sandy brings an added personal touch to Bluebird with her creative talents and her heart for support and encouragement.

#passionwithpurpose

#allin

#techsupportalways

#bluebirdstrong

Layla Kattau

Social Media Coordinator

Layla is the face behind Bluebird's online presence! She always has a list going and lives and dies by her planner. Layla started with Bluebird as an intern from Grand Valley State and is now an official member of the team! She loves to spread Bluebird's message and introduce the organization to new people.

#canvaenthusiast

#itsalreadyonthelist

#caffeinefirst

#bluebirdstrong

Tracy Dodes

East Michigan Retreat Coordinator

Tracy is a waymaker. When she has her heart set on something, she doesn’t stop until it comes to fruition. As a survivor of breast cancer, she embraced Bluebird as a participant, volunteer, and is now our Eastside Coordinator! Tracy can be found running around a classroom of first graders, rockhounding on the beaches or whittling on a rainy day. She may be small, but is big on hugs and support!

#makingithappen

#rockhounder

#tinybutmighty

#bluebirdstrong

Administrative Leadership

Board of Directors

Mike Pokrywka, President
General Manager of Lack’s Wheel Trim Systems

Lorie Jager, Vice-President
Sr. Adjunct Professor, GVSU

Ben Keller, Treasurer
Senior Financial Analyst, BDO

Darcie Beebe
Transplant Coordinator, Spectrum Health

Jess Garrison
Realtor, Coldwell Banker

Lindsey Sabol, BSN, RN, OCN
Manager, Medical Oncology, University of Michigan Health-West

Jennifer West, LMSW, OSW-C Oncology Social Worker, Trinity Health Lacks Cancer Center

Erik Johnson
Associate Buyer, Meijer

Rebeca Johnson
Manager, Systems Leadership Support, Priority Health

Advisory Board

Rick Arnold
Owner, Broadview Product Development

Patty Keller
Retired Teacher, Spring Lake Public Schools

Gloria LeMaire
Retired Executive Secretary

The Bluebird Experience

Imagine a weekend surrounded by others who truly understand your cancer journey. Picture strolling through nature, sharing stories that only kindred spirits can fully appreciate. Envision finding light even in the darkest of days.

At Bluebird Cancer Retreats, you'll discover a community that embraces you with open arms. Our programs offer a respite from the chaos of cancer - a chance to reflect, restore, and renew.

Together, we'll laugh, cry, and celebrate the gift of each moment. You'll leave with lifelong friendships, new insights, and a spirit rejuvenated.

Come experience the power of connection. Let us walk this path by your side. See our upcoming retreats or contact us today at 616-847-0839. We're here for you.