Stories From the Heart — Volunteering, Sharing Stories & Giving Back
I learned about Idaho2Fly 11 ago and experienced firsthand the impact it has on men with cancer and their families. I am a lifelong fly fisherman, so when I was asked if I could help at a retreat as a Fishing Friend, it seemed quite natural to volunteer. Since I have prostate cancer, my wife is a cancer survivor, my dad and many other relatives died of cancer, I agreed to help. I had no idea the impact that the retreats would have on both the guests and myself. At that first retreat, the guest I was helping told me how he just tried to be tough and not tell his family about his cancer. After meeting and talking to other men with cancer, he realized he needed to include his family and tell them what he was going through. He told me "this cancer may get me, but not this month, probably not this year and I need to include my family through this journey". When I realized we were helping not just men with cancer, but also their families, I knew I had to stay involved. I also realized as a man living with cancer, I too found myself in a fraternity that no one wants to join — and as a member of that fraternity, I know of the fears and challenges that one faces with cancer.
Since that moment, I've volunteered in many capacities for Idaho2Fly, including serving on the Board of Directors, coordinating Fly Fishing 101 classes, and facilitating retreat group sessions. Volunteering for Idaho2Fly has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
As a member of the Idaho2Fly Community, you too have seen firsthand how impactful Idaho2Fly can be for men and their families. Idaho2Fly’s unique approach and year-round programs create a powerful platform for men to navigate cancer with resilience and community. Many guests have been so moved by their retreat experience that they become more involved, stay connected, and volunteer in a variety of capacities. Many continue to give back and pay it forward for those that follow. One such guest is David Nehmer, who with the help of his daughter (Emmy-winning editor Christen Skinner, CSFilms, LLC.) and a talented team of film makers have donated their services and secured funding through grants and sponsorships to make a documentary movie that features Idaho2Fly. This short film, Currents of Courage, highlights how Idaho2Fly helps men with cancer find resilience, hope and community through fly fishing, art, camaraderie and connection — tracing their journeys from isolation and vulnerability to healing, purpose and brotherhood. It tells a powerful story, honors Idaho’s spirit and inspires support for Idaho2Fly’s mission. I encourage you to visit the website Currents of Courage and watch the preview of David and other recent guests sharing the unexpected impact Idaho2Fly had on their lives. I think you will find it quite moving.
If Idaho2Fly has touched your life — or the life of someone you know — would you consider helping us tell our story by sharing this film preview with your friends and colleagues? Another way you can help is by making a gift to Idaho2Fly. Whether a single gift or monthly recurring gifts, you can make a lasting impact. Make a gift today and help us continue to offer free life-changing retreats and support programs to men who need them. You can help make a difference in the lives of men fighting cancer!
Sincerely,
Chris Preston,
Board Member, Fishing Friend, Facilitator
