It is estimated that one in eight women in our province will have breast cancer at some point in their lives. The majority of them will have a dramatically increased risk of lymphedema as a result of their cancer treatment. Few will know much about this troublesome side effect until they actually experience it.
Research now shows that exercise and a healthy lifestyle can help fight breast cancer and lymphedema. Breast cancer survivors across the country have discovered a wonderful way to exercise and at the same time, have the time of their lives. It’s called dragon boat racing!
On October 30, 2006, dragon boating for breast cancer survivors got its start in Newfoundland and Labrador. Since that time, we have succeeded in building a strong organization with a team of close to sixty members. We are the first breast cancer survivor team in North America to build its own dragon boat. With support from some terrific sponsors, we also have a beautiful pond site to operate from, twin docks built specifically for our needs and a lovely pink fibreglass boat in which to train. In August 2008, we achieved one of our earliest goals when 30 team members competed in our first dragon boat festival in New Glasgow, NS. But this is just the beginning. The Avalon Dragons have many exciting plans for the future, so stay tuned!
Members of the Avalon Dragon Boating Association believe that dragon boating sends a powerful message that people living with breast cancer can lead full, active, healthy lives. We hope that this message is a source of hope and inspiration to others who are just starting on their cancer journey.
