A team of breast cancer survivors from Saskatoon is set to participate in an international event. The dragon boat racing squad known as Busting with Energy is heading to France to compete against teams from various countries. One team member, Kerry Neal, shared how being on the water with others who have faced similar challenges brings a unique sense of vitality.
Neal discovered the team during her chemotherapy treatment and quickly joined once she felt better. The camaraderie among nearly 40 team members who have encountered similar struggles has been a source of inspiration for her. The group humorously refers to themselves as “the team no one wants to join” since membership is exclusive to individuals who have battled breast cancer.
The team’s participation in dragon boat racing serves a dual purpose. Neal, like many others, joined to address lymphedema, a condition that can arise post breast cancer surgery. The sport has proven to be beneficial for rehabilitating muscles and lymph nodes affected by breast cancer procedures.
The inception of breast cancer dragon boat teams dates back to 1996 when a medical group in Vancouver established the first team. Initially, there were concerns about certain sports post breast surgery, but the Vancouver team debunked these myths. This initiative has since sparked a global interest in breast cancer dragon boating.
Anne Eagle, the team’s president, emphasized the importance of showcasing that life carries on after battling breast cancer. Eagle, a member for six years following her diagnosis 12 years ago, highlighted the strength and enduring connections formed within the group. The team not only aims to empower survivors physically but also provides a platform for shared experiences and mutual support.
The Busting with Energy team’s journey includes rigorous training sessions starting in February, leading up to practices on the South Saskatchewan River by May. The team comprises women of diverse fitness levels and ages, with some members exceeding 80 years old. Their upcoming challenge involves competing in the 2026 IBCPC Participatory Dragon Boat Festival in France alongside 320 other teams, uniting thousands of breast cancer survivors worldwide.
The event signifies a non-competitive gathering bringing together survivors from across the globe. The growing popularity of breast cancer dragon boat racing is evident, with over 50 teams in Canada and more than 210 worldwide actively participating in this empowering activity.