We did it, another very rewarding event at Children’s Hospital. Thanks to four great FATC volunteers, Bob Palisch, Bret Heath, Jim Craig and myself Steve Baker. We all met Emily Rothschild, [Child Services Coordinator] at the security desk at Children’s, and after checking in; she led to the eighth floor Olson Garden. A very beautiful outdoor area for patients and families to visit and enjoy while they are at the hospital. It was a perfect day to be outside with fresh air sunshine, the flowers and fountains. We were able to set up a table with chairs and our tying stations in a shady area of the garden.
Bob and Bret began tying some flies and soon patients started showing up to see what we were doing. They were able to customize a safety pin fly for each patient as they arrived. The patient picks out the colors and types of material they would like on their fly. One of the patient aids informed us of a young boy that was undergoing therapy and would not be able to attend so Jim Craig volunteered to go to his bedside and tie a fly for him, nice job Jim. I received a visited by a physical therapist who called me after our last event asking if I would be able to teach her what we do because she has a patient in recovering that is very interested in fishing and wants to learn how to tie flies. She even went to the trouble of purchasing some materials for learning and teaching her patient. I was able to spend about 15 minutes with her and she caught on quick. I offered to come back to the hospital to teach the young man as soon as he is ready.
As usual, the time flew by and after having about 15 visitors including some parents and aids our time was up. Once again, the reward is so worth the time invested and the only regret is not being able to add more joy and smiles into the lives of these young patients and their families. I will be planning another event at Children’s possible for early December or after the holidays, depending on what I can work out with the hospital. Keep your eyes on the team-up calendar and be thankful for the opportunity to serve our community. Thanks again to the volunteers and for the opportunity to be part of such a great fellowship.
Steve Baker FATC Community Service Lead
