Finding Peace, Strength and Sisterhood: A Sanctuary for Women at Peace on Patuxent

Each year, countless women face the life-altering impact of a cancer diagnosis.

Beyond medical appointments and treatment plans lies a quieter — yet equally vital — need: space to rest, reflect, and restore the emotional and spiritual strength required to navigate such a journey.

In Laurel, Maryland, there is a place created specifically to meet that need — a place where women are not defined by illness, but embraced for their courage, resilience, and humanity.

That place is Peace on Patuxent, Inc. (POPi).

A Healing Haven in Laurel, Maryland —

With Reach Beyond Its Walls

Located in Laurel, Maryland, Peace on Patuxent is a no-cost respite home and day retreat for women diagnosed with life-leveling cancers.

While rooted in Prince George’s County, POPi has welcomed and served women from across the state of Maryland — and beyond, offering a rare and deeply compassionate space of healing that transcends geography.

Nestled in a peaceful residential setting, the retreat offers a sense of calm and safety the moment guests arrive.

Women who come to Peace on Patuxent often describe it as a place where they can finally exhale — away from appointments, expectations, and caregiving responsibilities — and simply be.

Mission-Driven Care That Honors the Whole Woman

Peace on Patuxent was created with a powerful mission:

To provide a nurturing space that inspires hope, empowerment, peace, and enlightenment for women facing the challenges of cancer.

This mission comes to life through thoughtfully designed experiences that support the mind, body, and spirit. POPi recognizes that healing is not only physical — it is emotional, spiritual, and deeply personal.

Retreat Experiences That Restore and Renew

Peace on Patuxent offers both overnight retreats and day retreats, ensuring accessibility for women at different stages of treatment and recovery.

Overnight Retreats:

Women diagnosed with cancer — whether newly diagnosed, actively in treatment, or within two years post-diagnosis — may enjoy a two-night stay in a private bedroom, at no cost. Nutritious meals are provided, and the pace is intentionally gentle, honoring each guest’s need for rest and quiet restoration.

Day Retreats:

Day retreats offer women the opportunity to experience the sanctuary’s peaceful environment, enjoy a complimentary lunch, and participate in nurturing activities — all within a single day.

Offerings may include:

• Guided meditation and gentle yoga
• Reflective and expressive writing
• Nutritional education
• Quiet time in the meditation garden or reading room

Every experience is optional, allowing each woman to engage in what feels supportive and meaningful to her in that moment.

Senita M. Hill, Founder, CEO

The Vision and Leadership

of Founder & CEO, Senita M. Hill

Peace on Patuxent exists because of the vision, compassion, and leadership of Senita M. Hill, Founder and CEO. An African-American woman and community leader, Senita created POPi from deeply personal experiences with cancer in her family — experiences that shaped her understanding of how profoundly women are impacted, often while still caring for others.

What began as a heartfelt vision became reality when Senita transformed a family home on Patuxent Road into a sanctuary of peace. Her leadership is grounded in empathy, dignity, and the belief that women facing cancer deserve more than survival — they deserve rest, affirmation, and care.

As a colleague of mine through the National Aging in Place Council, Prince George’s County (MD) chapter, I have witnessed firsthand Senita’s commitment to community-centered service and her unwavering dedication to improving quality of life for women during some of their most vulnerable moments.

More Than a Retreat — A Community of Hope

Peace on Patuxent is not only a physical space; it is a community built on compassion and shared understanding.

Women who pass through its doors often leave with renewed strength, meaningful connections, and the comforting reminder that they are not alone — regardless of where they call home.

Serving women throughout Maryland and beyond, POPi stands as a testament to what is possible when care is rooted in empathy, cultural awareness, and genuine human connection.

How to Support or Learn More:

Peace on Patuxent thrives because of generous supporters, volunteers, and community partners who believe in the power of rest and restoration.

Whether you are:

• A woman navigating a cancer diagnosis
• A loved one seeking a meaningful gift of respite
• A supporter looking to invest in life-affirming care

For more information, go to: PeaceOnPatuxent.org

Peace on Patuxent welcomes you with open arms and an open heart!