Quality of Life and Resilience: Exploring a Fly Fishing Intervention for Breast Cancer Survivors.

BACKGROUND

The Casting for Recovery® therapeutic intervention provides a positive, nontraditional weekend experience for breast cancer survivors. Participants receive fly fishing instruction and participate in structured and unstructured therapeutic activities.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether breast cancer survivors had improved resilience and quality-of-life scores after program participation.

METHODS: Participants completed the Quality of Life Breast Cancer questionnaire and Connor-
Davidson Resilience Scale two weeks before and three and six months after the retreats.

FINDINGS

No statistically significant differences between pre- and postintervention quality-of-life or resilience scores were noted. However, qualitative data reflected a high degree of participant satisfaction, healing, and learning. Participants added that peer and volunteer connections, group camaraderie, good nutrition, being in nature, and learning a new skill were all positive aspects of the program.