About Us

WHO WE ARE

Survivors Abreast is a dragon boat team of breast cancer survivors from the Peterborough area in various stages of treatment and recovery. We have something else in common--strength of spirit. We are committed to living our lives to the fullest and sharing that expectation and hope with others.

If you see us on the water, we'll be a crew of twenty paddlers wearing shocking pink baseball hats. At the stern is the coxswain who steers the boat. Sitting on the bow and facing the team is our coach, who makes sure our paddling strokes are always in rhythm. But it takes many more people to make up a team. That's why we are always on the lookout for new members. Age is not important; members currently are in their 30s to 70s and from all walks of life. All you need to join is:

• An interest and enthusiasm for the sport.
• A diagnosis of breast cancer at some time in your life.

IF YOU JOIN US...

We paddle from April through September. We start in April with pool practice twice a week in the YMCA pool, where you will learn the basic stroke and start building up your strength. Then, in May, once the weather allows, we practice twice a week on Little Lake. We work on paddling skill, strength, endurance, and coordination, in training for three or four race festivals through the summer. We put on the Peterborough Dragon Boat Festival each June, which raises funds for the benefit of breast cancer diagnosis and treatment.

We also have team meetings approximately once a month in the non-paddling season, and many social get-togethers. Many of us exercise together in the winter, and participate as a group in other events like the Run for the Cure. Regardless of your current level of fitness, you will find that the training and paddling practice will enhance your physical well-being. But, just as important, you will find that you have joined an amazing group of women who offer each other companionship, support and friendship.

WHEN / HOW TO JOIN

Our membership year starts in November. Membership dues are $25. You may join at any time during the year. Contact membership chair Marg Higgins (margjim_4@sympatico.ca; 705-489-2849) or team president Joan Bates (joannie33@live.com; 705-652-3705) if you are interested in joining the team, or for more information. You can also find more information on our website: www.survivorsabreast.com.