In 2018, a compassionate spark ignited the journey of Angling for Relief, all thanks to the remarkable vision of a young soul named Jake Klopfenstein. At the tender age of 12, Jake embarked on a mission fueled by empathy and a deep desire to make a difference in the lives of children battling cancer.
A Heartwarming Inspiration: Remembering Ryan Baker
The genesis of Angling for Relief sprang from a heartfelt connection. Jake’s inspiration came from his dear friend, Ryan Baker, who valiantly fought an 18-month battle with Ewing Sarcoma before leaving this world. Through their friendship, Jake experienced the power of kindness and witnessed Ryan’s unwavering strength, even in the face of adversity. Ryan’s comforting smile and the kindness he shared left an indelible mark on Jake’s heart.
Hi, I am Jake, the founder of Angling for Relief. Angling for Relief is a nonprofit organization that combines my passion for fishing and my desire to bring a smile to the faces of children battling cancer.
Why Angling for Relief?
As a kindergartener, I was blessed with some great 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade buddies at my school that were very kind to me. Ryan Baker was one of those buddies. At the end of my Kindergarten year, Ryan was diagnosed with Pediatric Ewing Sarcoma. I did not see Ryan much over the next 18 months while he battled this cancer. I wondered why he could not go to school and why he could not join in activities during that time. It has been over 4 years since Ryan passed, and I always remember Ryan, his smile, and how he was so kind to me. I have been thinking about all the children that are now going through cancer treatment and are limited in the activities they are able to do, just as Ryan was. As my passion is fishing, I want them to be able to fish!
Through the programs we have developed, children will be able to learn to fish from their home/hospital using our “Dry Fishing Kit” and educational materials. Our YouTube channel gives them demonstrations and activities to learn more about fishing. We will then offer them the opportunity to put their skills to the test on the water once they are cleared by their medical team/parents and join us at our #FishingIsRelief events. At these events, the entire family is welcome to join in the fun and find some fishing relief, too.
Jake’s heart was set on providing young cancer fighters with a haven from the weight of their diagnoses, treatments, and hospital stays. He recognized the need for them to simply embrace the joy of being kids, even amid challenging circumstances. It was this realization that birthed the noble mission of Angling for Relief.
Jake’s innovation, known as “Dry Fishing,” emerged as a creative solution to bring fishing joy to children both in the hospital and at home. Through the unwavering support of friends, family, and the community, Jake made it possible for these brave young souls to experience the thrill of fishing even in the midst of their battles. The camaraderie that comes from angling provided them with a much-needed respite and moments of pure delight.
Once approved by their medical teams and parents, these resilient young anglers are invited to showcase their skills at our Fishing is Relief events. These events are more than just fishing—they are a celebration of life, courage, and unity. Entire families are welcomed to partake in the joyous festivities, fostering an environment where everyone can find their own sense of fishing relief.
Jake’s vision continues to flourish through Angling for Relief. As we pay homage to the memory of Ryan Baker and the kindness he shared, we extend a hand to all those who seek solace in the embrace of angling. Together, we cast hope and reel in moments of respite, camaraderie, and unwavering support.
Join us in our mission to turn fishing lines into lifelines.
Angling for Relief is a nonprofit organization that combines my passion for fishing and my desire to bring a smile to the faces of children battling cancer.
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