It sounds like the lever on the inside of the case isn't staying in position. You might tape in place an object like a thick washer or a chunk of a clothes pin on each side of the lever in the position that it is suppose to be in. Use duct tape to hold securely. Maybe it will tide you over until after the retreat. You could call Janome and ask them if there is something they can suggest that you could do and still be able to use your machine for the retreat. I have the same machine.