Dragon boating fuels strength of cancer survivors

Breast cancer survivors in Cape Breton are finding strength on the water through a dragon boati program backed by all three community health boards in the area. 

With financial support from the East, Central and Northside Cape Breton County community health boards, the Cape Breastoners Dragon Boat Team Society recently launched information sessions welcoming new paddlers, while promoting physical, mental and social benefits of the racing sport. 

The society gave presentations about the team's history and the benefits of dragon boating, while participants, with guidance from their coach, Sue LeBlanc, had a chance to try paddling. 

The community health boards provided nearly $1,500. 

"We're absolutely thrilled to have received such generous support,” said Beverly Spencer, society secretary, active paddler and a 15-year breast cancer survivor. 

“It has been incredibly helpful and there’s been support for every aspect of what we’re doing in fitness, safety and public awareness. It’s been terrific." 

Community health board wellness funds support non-profit groups working to improve health in their communities. Among other things, grants go toward programs that promote food security, housing, transportation and social participation. The goal is to reduce risks of poor health outcomes in Nova Scotia communities. 

The society has existed for about 25 years. Thanks to private sector and charity grants, they bought a boat, life jackets, paddles and team uniforms. Years later, they acquired a second boat. The boats, which they paddle out of the Mira Boat Club, each weigh about 300 kilograms and measure 12 metres in length. 

When they’re not competing, the society hosts twice-weekly training in the warmer months and dry land sessions in the winter. 

“Dry land training can include fitness activities like yoga. We’ve also had water safety training at the YMCA, which was really important,” Spencer said. “While dragon boating is generally safe, there’s always some risk, especially with the waves and wind on the Mira River, that the boat could overturn. We wear life jackets, of course, but, thanks to community health board funding, we were able to run that program. It helped members feel more confident and comfortable in the water.” 

The highlight of their summer is the annual dragon boat festival in Pictou County. “It’s a friendly competition and good camaraderie with other teams. It’s a lot of fun,” she added. 

The Cape Breastoners are made up of 55 strong breast cancer survivors from all across Cape Breton, from Iona to Louisbourg, and they are always looking for new members.  Breast cancer survivors who would like to try dragon boating can get in touch via email at prescapebreastoners@outlook.com. 

"It’s a great way to empower women who’ve been through something as difficult as breast cancer and to help them feel healthy and fit again,” Spencer said. “Teamwork is a huge part of it because you’re literally pulling together in a boat to move forward. That really resonates with us.” 

The society remains grateful for the community health board support, which has supported the group achieve goals, such as improving physical and emotional health. 

“It means so much to receive encouragement and support, to feel that we’re not alone in our journey toward fitness, strength and well-being,” Spencer added. “Having that support for these goals is incredibly gratifying.” 

Photo of breast cancer survivors in Cape Breton paddling the Mira River aboard a dragon boat.