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.

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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.

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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.

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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.