Throwback

I have always been the type of mom who takes initiative in seeking out activities for both of my children to enjoy. My son, Stefan, who is now 18 and attending UC Irvine, had no limitations pertaining to education or in choosing a sport or hobby. His sister, Naomi, an enutero stroke survivor that has overcome many challenges, enjoys the outdoors and just as many activities, although I must be more selective based on her abilities.

Ten years have passed since her birth and with each new year, I learn anew how to come to terms with the reality of learning to navigate the special needs world. Whether it be the stress of her medical appointments, paperwork, therapy, or educational goals, like many other families of the special needs community, I try to live one day at a time as I tame my worries about her future. 

What helps most with offsetting the mental bouts of “future tripping” are the many groups and foundations that she has been able to enjoy. One of the most recent adventures she and I enjoyed was a day of experiencing the sport of fishing with the C.A.S.T. for Kids Foundation. Short for “Catch a Special Thrill,” the time she spent that day catching her first fish was definitely a thrill. 

Formed in 1991 by Jim Powell, who wanted to provide an activity that people of all abilities could equally enjoy, he connected “passioneers” of fishing with children who were diagnosed with physical or developmental challenges to enjoy a day of fishing.  The foundation became an official 501(c)3 in 1994 and currently hosts three programs: C.A.S.T. for Kids, Fishing Kids, and Take a Warrior Fishing.

With fishing events throughout the United States, families are taken on a fishing adventure by many people who not only volunteer their time but also their boats.  C.A.S.T. dedicates all funds throughout the year with monies exclusively used for all the supplies. Supported by many other organizations such as California Boating & Waterway and U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, free safety education is provided along with ensuring appropriate fitting of life jackets.

The energy of pure joy was matched with a sense of responsibility for the sport along with the dedication of providing a momentous occasion for children (and their families!).  The day also included each child being given their very own fishing rod, a fully stocked tackle box, and a BBQ lunch to enjoy after an awesome boat ride. 

In attendance that day was also Assemblyman Jim Frazier, who assisted with the event as a special needs advocate and provided many resources that helped make this event at the Sugar Barge Resort on Bethel Island possible. If that wasn’t enough, through the many organizing tasks of volunteer coordinators Renza Badilla and Nicholas Schofield, BASS Competition members were integrated to add even more pro fisherman to the list of kind-hearted individuals that dedicate their day and skills. 

It was such a great time for my daughter and I.  She was shown the despite difficult challenges someone may face in this world, there are activities such as fishing that make it very easy to have a successful day. We got the pleasure of her being shown the basics of fishing, along with being on a beautiful boat, by BASS Angler magazine owner Mark Lassagne.

The focus on enjoying the experience was felt through the entire event. And, unlike the small fish we may catch that are too small to keep, the memories created for my daughter cannot be thrown back. They are forever hers to keep. It will be a conversation that she will get to share with her kids one day.  C.A.S.T. For Kids will be a “throwback” recollection shared by the many that were blessed to attend. The thrills of catching that first fish will make waves for years to come. Thank you, C.A.S.T. For Kids, for catching so many hearts of so many families and providing a day where everyone was included in learning the love of fishing. 

For more information about the C.A.S.T. For Kids Foundation, please visit: castforkids.org