For many fly fishers, the sport is more about the therapeutic benefits of being in calm beautiful surroundings than it is about the catch. This natural therapy is the foundation for Heroes Mending on the Fly, Nova Scotia, which is part of a Canada-wide organization dedicated to the physical and emotional rehabilitation of disabled military members, Veterans, and first responders.
It provides participants with an opportunity to learn about and participate in fly fishing while socializing, goal setting, and problem solving with other participants. Learning or rebuilding fly-tying and fly-fishing skills, and using these skills on fishing outings and for lifelong recreation, aids physical and emotional recovery.
Heroes Mending on the Fly offers invaluable benefits. At the physical level, participants learn all about fly fishing—from tying their own flies, and learning how to cast them, to using them on fishing expeditions. Beyond these mechanics, though, the organization unites injured Veterans in an activity that promotes mental health and comradery.
Participants have praised the program for getting them out of their self-imposed social isolation and re-engaging with others. It fosters connection and reconnection among Veterans and provides a comfortable space in which they can share experiences and discuss mutual challenges. It also works as a peer support group, with participants realizing they are not alone in their struggles.
Each program ends with a three-day fly fishing trip, a highly anticipated outing which enriches the lives of the participants and solidifies the relationships built throughout the sessions. Catching fish is but a bonus!
The Nova Scotia branch of Heroes Mending on the Fly is headed by Ray McEachern, who, after 30 years of military service, wanted a way to give back to fellow Veterans. He feels privileged and humbled that a love for fly fishing can be translated into such a positive impact for Veterans through the program.