At the SFF — we strive to “Catch & Release” our Passion for Fly Fishing. We want to provide the women cancer survivors with a special weekend of “Rustic Elegance.”

 I am pleased to report that we had 41 volunteers who contributed an astonishing 567 hours of volunteer service to the 2010 Spring Fly Fling — Women’s Fly Fishing and Therapeutic Outdoor Retreat.

 I am pleased to report that we had 41 volunteers who contributed an astonishing 567 hours of volunteer service to the 2010 Spring Fly Fling — Women’s Fly Fishing and Therapeutic Outdoor Retreat.

They have recognized the importance of this type of therapeutic outdoor retreat and want to do what they can to support women who are actively confronting the challenges associated with cancer.  The adaptive outdoor activities (fly fishing, kayaking, and hiking) that are a function the weekend retreat have been found to have positive healing benefits.

Quotes from participants:

Cathy and I are still on a “natural high” from our wonderful weekend. 

 Great fun with the girl band “Sweeter than Whiskey” even though it wasn’t beside the campfire.

 The environment of Montfair Resort is perfect for the retreat as it took most of us out of the safety of our own world and gave all of us the same “starting point”.

 The Moormans River is such a beautiful setting, very easy for beginners to use.

 I am thankful for everyone’s part in feeding me, but some of us are not used to eating that much or that well. I enjoyed all of it.

 The guides were so patient and willing to help all of us. They are an awesome group of folks who in some cases have met and overcome challenges in their lives too.

 Learning to tie flies with “Bear” was super. It was great that he took the time to share his talents with us.

 I especially liked meeting other women who have made similar journeys in their discovery and recovery from cancer.

 Learning to fly fish was awesome, but you never gave us the cure for being bitten by the fishing bug!  Teaching us a skill that we otherwise might have not been exposed to was great.

What did you like best about the Spring Fly Fling retreat?

The beauty of the setting (both at Montfair and on the river).

 The enthusiasm of the guides in sharing their knowledge.

 Being pampered while also being treated like a capable and independent person (rather than a “patient” or a “survivor”).

 I was struck at dinner the first night by the fact that all of us (at least everyone around me) found it hard to believe that we weren’t supposed to be doing the work (as opposed to being “guests”). Being a pampered guest is one of the nicest aspects of the experience, but it’s rare for women to experience it at all (and, when we do, we are usually paying for it, as with a pedicure, etc.).

 I enjoyed the people, the fishing, hiking, bonfire, food, fellowship, the site and the relaxation. We had, I thought a wonderful group, all volunteers and thanks to you for the time and energy it takes to put something like the Fly Fishing Outing together, and many thanks to the persons who funded the event.

 Thank you and your family for organizing such an awesome experience.  I can’t wait for our reunion!

 Blessings to everyone who helped make the event possible and wonderful!

Filed under: Therapeutic Adventures