History

Casting for Life began in 1997 by Linda Humphreys, Lorraine Whellams and Lynda McLennan. They brought the program to Alberta based on a similar program originating in Vermont teaching women recovering from breast cancer to fly fish. The program consisted of intensive training in all aspects of fly fishing including casting, tying, equipment, entomology, etc.

At the time, Calgary had a strong support group base for cancer victims in general including many support groups to assist breast cancer survivors in particularly. However, what was not available was a place where women could forget about cancer for the weekend, learn a new activity, receive valuable exercise and experience the healing quality of being one with nature. It was because of this need that Casting for Life was born. The founding directors added the notion of pampering these women for the weekend with wonderful accommodations and great food. We have never looked back.

Casting for Life has now completed its 11th year. The inaugural retreat was held back in 1997 at the King’s Fold Retreat Centre on the Ghost River in Alberta. Following are the locations of the retreats’ since then:

1998 Blue Lake Lodge
1999 Goldeye Center
2000 Entheos
2001 Centre for Learning
2002 Centre for Learning
2003 Centre for Learning
2004 Centre for Learning
2005 Centre for Learning
2006 Centre for Learning
2007 Centre for Learning

Each retreat has had its memorable moments with fish caught, friends made, tears spilled and laughter shared. Casting for Life has touched the lives of hundreds of people throughout the past eight years and hopes to continue to make an impact in the lives of breast cancer survivors and their families.