Breast cancer patients to benefit through new fishing scheme

The England Ladies Flyfishing Association and the Countryside Alliance have joined forces to launch Casting for Recovery (UK & Ireland), a unique outdoor-based programme specifically designed for women who have or have had breast cancer.

Casting For Recovery will provide fly-fishing programmes at idyllic retreats around the UK and Ireland.  Any woman who has experienced breast cancer is eligible to apply to attend a retreat (with medical clearance from their doctor).   Weekend retreats are provided at no cost to the participants including accommodation, meals, counselling, and professional instruction.  Trained medical staff and fly-fishing instructors will be on hand at all times.

Fly-fishing offers proven benefits for recovering breast cancer patients.  The casting action provides the gentle exercise recommended by physiotherapists for joint and soft tissue mobility.   Fly-fishing also offers participants a chance to reflect and escape in tranquil surroundings.  Casting for Recovery was founded in the United States in 1996 and has since helped more than 2,000 breast cancer survivors.  The first course in the UK will take place at Duncton Mill, West Sussex between 17-19 September 2007.  World-famous fly-fishing retailer Orvis has generously supplied the equipment and clothing needed to run the event.

The UK Planning Co-ordinator is Sue Hunter, who recovered from breast cancer to become an international gold medallist and captain of Team England 2007.   Sue said:  “My aim is for Casting for Recovery to be as successful in the UK and Ireland as it has been in the US and Canada and for us to reach as many women as possible who might benefit from the experience.”

Robert Gray, Countryside Alliance Campaigns Director said: “Nothing like this has been done before on this side of the Atlantic. We have committed ourselves to setting up the first courses in England, Wales, Ireland, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The programme will set the benchmark for excellence in outdoor therapy of this kind."

Wendy Miller, Chair of the England Ladies Flyfishing Association commented: "The Association is extremely proud to launch Casting for Recovery here in the UK and Ireland.  We look forward to working with the Countryside Alliance, who will plan with us the initial retreats and beyond.  Also, it's wonderful to have the support of Orvis UK, who have graciously extended the sponsorship they give to Casting for Recovery in the US.  I am personally thrilled to see the project move forward, and would like to thank everyone involved.  Breast cancer is an issue that I feel very passionate about, there are few families who have not been touched by it, mine being no exception."

NOTES

For further information, contact:       

·       Sue Hunter, UK Planning Co-ordinator: 07931 448090
·       Robert Gray, Countryside Alliance: 07917 476318                                            

 (7/12/06)