During the preceding weeks, and all the way up until the first participant arrived, I was running scenario after scenario through my head. What do i do in case this happens, or this, or, god forbid, that?! I have taught dozens and dozens of people how to fly fish, often times in groups, but this was a whole new ballgame. As I said, I was intimidated.

So, how did it turn out you may be wondering? In short, it was a very special experience. The biggest part of it was not the fishing. It was being there. Yes, the fishing was fun and the chance to pass along knowledge and experiences to potential new devotees of a sport I love was enjoyable enough alone. The chance to spend some time on a lovely piece of trout water was also great. It all pales in comparison to the people. Those same people whom I spent hours and hours worrying about. How is that for irony?

Of course I did my share of carrying things from here to there, getting water, keeping track of equipment and other sorts of things. All the volunteers did. Those types of tasks are rewarding on their own. But it was being in the water with the participants – that’s where real special things happened. Women who normally have difficulty walking, relishing the river pushing against their legs. Or women who would cast their fly and actually see a trout rise – only to forget to set the hook because they turned to share a smile that a trout was “out there.” I watched their faces light up as the river worked its magic.

Out of the river, listening to them laugh and cry while talking with others, was…educational. Even I blushed a few times overhearing a few things (you know who you are).

I have done as much thinking about that time and those women since as before. Now I run things that happened over and over in my mind and it brings a smile. I am just as anxious as before. Anxious to do it again.

-DGM, Volunteer & River Guide

VISIT OUR BOOTH!

Fellow Fly Fishers & Supporters,

The 2008 season will have its official start at the MFFC Midwest Fly Fishing Expo in Warren, MI, this weekend! Once again, Reeling & Healing Midwest will be hosting a booth at the show. If you are planning to attend, please stop by Booth E-14/E-15 and check us out.

Some of the activities in our booth include:

• Trout Love Beads – while supplies last
• Win A Custom Graphite Rod of Your Choice by Famed Rod Builder & Designer Kerry Burkheimer.
• Special Drawing for Fishing Gear & Accessories.
• The Fly Donation Creel is Open for Your Fly Donations.
• The New “Fish On” Hat and Shirt Collection will Debut.
• Past Participants & Volunteers can order a Special Rod Outfit – rod, reel, line, leader, tippet, flies & fly box.
• Learn about our Retreats – Sign up to Volunteer, Host a Fundraiser, Recruit Participants and More.
• Sign up to Participate in the Vest Decorating Contest.

FLY DONATIONS: Thanks to the support of fly tyers and tying clubs from around the world, our fly donation campaign was a tremendous success last year. These donations allowed us to outfit all 2007 participants with flies. Our mission for 2008 is to do it again. We welcome all types of flies. Learn more here.

Stop by and check out our Show Specials too!

Again, we invite you to join us in kick-starting another great season of renewing the spirit and hope of those who are battling and surviving cancer. Stop by Booth E-14/E-15. Take time out to meet some of the wonderful women who have participated in our fly fishing wellness retreats.

If you’re interested in volunteering in our booth during the show, please send us an email or phone 616-855-4017. We need additional assistance and welcome the help.

Here is to renewed spirit and renewed hope.

FISH ON!

Our our Theresa D., Sara W., and Terrie were there with a booth for Reeling & Healing Midwest. They had a great time talking to attendees and sharing stories about R&H Midwest, handing out our trout love beads and accepting donations for our retreat programs.

Sara, an accomplished fly tyer, introduced Terrie to the world of tying. She was mesmerized by the detail and workmanship that goes into tying a fly – she was blown away.

There was a variety of exhibitors from the fishing world – local and national, as well as seminars, speakers and hands-on demonstrations. Some of the best experts throughout the Great Lakes region were present.

The show was a tremendous success for the Huron Valley Chapter and we look forward to returning next year.

Read more here.

Are you ready to fish your own rod and reel outfit?

We’re delighted to announce that St. Croix Rod Company has heard our requests and is offering a special package exclusive to Reeling & Healing Midwest.

The combination package consists of a 2 or 4 piece, 8’6″, 5 wt. fly rod, matching reel, fly line, leader, spool of tippet, small foam fly box, 18 assorted flies and shipping costs. We have used these rod outfits at our retreat programs for +3 years and they’ve worked out well. We recommend this rod outfit for novice/beginner level fishermen or individuals who may fish for trout, panfish or bass, less than 15 times a year.

Learn more about cost and ordering here.

This offer is exclusive to Reeling & Healing Midwest participants, volunteers and their family members.

Phone 616-855-4017 with any questions.

FISH ON!

-Sue W.

- Joe S.

Thank you again for the opportunity to make a father proud.

- Bill B.

Rose P.

���The Difference Is You��� recipient is awarded based on the following criteria:

�? An individual who is a breast cancer survivor, caregiver or activist

�? An individual who has demonstrated an understanding and awareness of issues related to breast cancer survivorship.

�? An individual who has demonstrated a commitment to educating the public with life-saving messages about the importance of early detection.

�? An individual that has made healthy lifestyle choices to help prevent the disease.

Nomination forms were sent out to over 195 different area health care providers, support groups and hospitals. Among the many exemplary nominations received, JoAnn’s stood out as an example of someone who has truly invested in making a difference.

Zeta Tau Alpha is proud to be able to recognize JoAnn as a key person who is making a difference in the community and in many individual lives. She is truly making a difference.

JoAnn will be recognized at the 2007 Survivor Celebration Dinner in Grand Rapids, MI on Thursday, September 27th.