Breast cancer survivors across the country have discovered a wonderful way to exercise while supporting other survivors in their community; it’s called dragon boat racing.

It’s estimated that one in eight women in our province will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. The majority of these women 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 shows that exercise and a healthy lifestyle can help fight breast cancer and lymphedema.

On October 30, 2006, dragon boating got its start in Newfoundland and Labrador. Since that time, we have built a strong organization with a team of about 70 members. We are very proud to be the first breast cancer survivor team in North America to build a wooden boat.

 

The Avalon Dragons paddle on Octagon Pond in Paradise, Newfoundland and Labrador, where, with the help of sponsors and community support, we hold our annual Paddle in Paradise Dragon Boat Festival. Our team has paddled in many provinces in Canada, the United States and Ireland and we are currently working on fulfilling our dream of building a boathouse on Octagon Pond.

Avalon Dragon Boating members believe that dragon boating sends a powerful message that people living with breast cancer can lead full, active, healthy lives. We hope this message is a source of hope and inspiration to others who are just starting on their cancer journey.


Jo Ann Whitten, Chair
Avalon Dragon Boating