A team of breast cancer survivors from Saskatoon is embarking on an international journey. The dragon boat racing crew, known as Busting with Energy, is set to compete in France against teams from various countries. One team member, Kerry Neal, expressed the uplifting experience of being on the water with individuals who share similar life stories. Neal discovered the team during her chemotherapy treatment and eagerly joined after feeling better. The camaraderie within the group, consisting of nearly 40 members who have faced breast cancer challenges, provides immense support and motivation.
The team humorously labels themselves as “the team no one wants to join,” as membership is exclusively for those who have battled breast cancer. Many individuals, including Neal, have found solace in dragon boating due to its aid in managing lymphedema, a condition that can arise post breast surgery. This sport effectively aids in rehabilitating muscles and lymph nodes affected by breast cancer procedures.
The concept of breast cancer dragon boating was initiated in 1996 by a medical group in Vancouver, challenging the notion that activities like canoeing should be restricted for women post-breast surgery. The success of the Vancouver team paved the way for the global popularity of breast cancer dragon boating. Anne Eagle, the team’s president, emphasized the importance of the team in showcasing life after breast cancer treatment and the significance of ongoing support and encouragement from fellow survivors.
The team’s training regimen, commencing with 12 weeks of dryland preparation in February and transitioning to on-water practices by May, accommodates women of diverse ages and fitness levels. The team’s inclusive nature, with members ranging from various age groups, fosters a supportive environment where each individual draws inspiration from others’ resilience. Busting with Energy is among the 320 teams participating in the 2026 IBCPC Participatory Dragon Boat Festival in France, uniting thousands of breast cancer survivors worldwide.
The festival serves as a non-competitive platform for survivors to bond and celebrate their strength and unity. The growing popularity of breast cancer dragon boat racing is evident with over 50 teams in Canada and more than 210 teams globally, showcasing the empowering impact of sports in the journey of breast cancer survivors.