A team of breast cancer survivors from Saskatoon is embarking on an international journey through dragon boat racing. The group known as Busting with Energy is set to compete in France against teams from various countries. Member Kerry Neal shared how empowering it is to paddle alongside individuals who have faced similar challenges, highlighting the camaraderie and support within the team.
For Neal, joining the team was a way to manage lymphedema, a condition that can arise post-breast cancer surgery. Dragon boating has been recognized as an effective exercise for rebuilding strength in muscles and lymph nodes affected by breast cancer treatments. The team’s origins trace back to a Vancouver medical group that established the first breast cancer dragon boat team in 1996, dispelling myths surrounding physical activities post-surgery.
Anne Eagle, the team’s president, emphasized the importance of the team in demonstrating life after breast cancer and the resilience of its members. The team not only focuses on physical strength but also fosters enduring connections among women with shared experiences. The team’s training regimen includes dryland sessions and on-water practices, catering to women of different ages and fitness levels.
The Busting with Energy team is gearing up to participate in the 2026 IBCPC Participatory Dragon Boat Festival in France, where thousands of breast cancer survivors worldwide will gather for a non-competitive event. The team’s presence signifies the growing popularity of breast cancer dragon boat racing, with numerous teams established in Canada and globally.