TOLEDO, Ohio – When the Maumee River glistens in the early morning, a group of women with breast cancer gathers for a unique form of therapy: fly fishing. Casting for Recovery, a local nonprofit, hosts two free retreats each year that combine the art of fly fishing with supportive community building.
Fishing as a healing art
Volunteer guide Rodney Frysinger has spent decades on the water and believes the sport offers more than recreation. “There is a rhythm to it, a kind of artistry, but also a bit of chaos when the fish takes the line,” he explained. “On the water, income, background, or political views fade away – we become friends.”
Frysinger says the experience creates an equalizing space where participants can set aside the daily stresses of treatment and simply enjoy the moment. “At the end of the day I see people smiling, laughing, even shedding tears of joy. I get as much out of it as they do,” he added.
Stories of impact
Melissa Fletcher was diagnosed with breast cancer a few years ago and has undergone surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. She described the retreat as a chance to “cast your cares away.” Fletcher noted that while her support team is strong, the disease can feel isolating. “Bonding with other women who truly understand the challenges of a breast‑cancer diagnosis is priceless,” she said.
Another participant, identified only as Randy, echoed the sentiment: “Cancer isn’t the most important thing on their mind for those two hours. They lose themselves in the activity and it fills the soul.”
Supporting the program
Each retreat serves 14 women and is offered at no cost, thanks to donations that cover equipment, guide fees, and travel expenses. To raise additional funds, Casting for Recovery will host a special event called Casting Hope on Oct. 28 at the Maumee Indoor Theater. The evening will feature a fly‑fishing film tour showcasing the sport’s landscapes, adventures, and culture.
Organizers hope the event will attract new donors and expand the program’s reach. “We rely on community generosity to keep these retreats free,” said a spokesperson for Casting for Recovery. “Every contribution helps us bring the healing power of the river to more women.”
Why the river matters
The Maumee River has long been a lifeline for the region, drawing residents for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. By pairing the river’s restorative qualities with a supportive network, Casting for Recovery exemplifies how local resources can address health challenges in a compassionate, faith‑affirming way.
For more information about the Oct. 28 Casting Hope event or to volunteer, visit the organization’s website.
Original reporting: 13abc WTVG Toledo (news) — read the source article.
