The Healing Powers of Fly Fishing
Spring is here which means summer is just around the corner, and here at The Crossing summer wouldn’t be summer without the inspiring Casting for Life annual retreat! For those of you not familiar with Casting for Life, a registered charity since 1997, it was created to, “provide women recovering from breast cancer with the opportunity to learn the sport of fly fishing and the art of fly tying in the beautiful and enriching environment of a three day retreat. By introducing them to this life-affirming activity, as well as providing a luxurious weekend of relaxation and renewal our desire is to provide them emotional and spiritual encouragement at a time in their lives when hope for the future is needed.”
Since 2001 The Crossing has proudly been the venue for the yearly retreat weekend. Year after year, we are continually inspired by the women who participate in this program. Watching women support women, share their stories, laughter and tears, and being able to partake as a vehicle in the healing process is something we are truly grateful for. Kate Fillion, a director at Casting for Life, explains how fly fishing has a multi-dimensional effect on recovering breast cancer survivors:
“The art of fly fishing plays an important role in the physical and emotional recovery process for breast cancer survivors. The motion of fly casting allows the body to gently exercise and stretch the muscles to allow for a greater range of movement. This can reduce swelling and help restore mobility and muscle function that may have been compromised by surgery. On an individual level, it is about coping with life after breast cancer diagnosis and treatment and finding and giving support through other women who share the same bond. Equally important, the sport of fly fishing draws people to beautiful, natural settings, places of solace where emotional well-being can flourish. Fly fishing is a marriage of physical activity and intellectual stimulation.”
This year’s retreat runs from July 17-19th and there are currently nine spots left on a first come, first serve basis. Casting for Life and their generous sponsors and volunteers have worked hard to augment the cost of the weekend to $200 per participant and includes all accommodations, meals, equipment, instruction, etc. If you or someone you know is a breast cancer survivor and could benefit from a weekend of relaxation, fun, friendship, meals that you don’t have to cook or clean, and above all else, healing for the mind, body and soul, please contact Kate Fillion at 403-606-4055, or visit www.castingforlife.com for more information.
