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

Barbara J. Henry

breast cancer, survivors, quality of life, resilience, therapy, psychological healing
CJON 2017, 21(1), E9-E14. DOI: 10.1188/17.CJON.E9-E14

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.

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