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HISTORY OF BREAST CANCER DRAGON BOATING

In 1995, Dr. Don McKenzie, a sport medicine physician at the University of British Columbia, started researching the issue of rehabilitation following diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.  Current opinion had prevailed that the avoidance of strenuous exercise was necessary to prevent lymphedema or swelling of the arm where lymph nodes had been removed.

Dr. McKenzie believed that upper body exercise has a role in recovery from breast cancer and lymphedema because it can improve range of motion and reverse muscle atrophy, activate skeletal muscle (which may help pump lymph) and stimulate the immune system.

OUR MISSION

• Assist people who have been treated for breast cancer to understand that they can lead full active lives, despite the physical limitations imposed by this disease

• Improve the quality of life for people who have had breast cancer

• Raise awareness about breast cancer

• Promote the pursuit of a cure

TEAM FOUNDERS

In 1998, Judy Hodson and Sue Bamford, breast cancer survivors, decided they wanted a sport that would support breast cancer survivors in the Kelowna area. Together they decided to organize a breast cancer dragon boat team after learning that dragon boating was a healthy sport for breast cancer survivors. After bringing the idea to breast cancer support groups, they found enough survivors to start a dragon boat team. Sue’s husband Bob devised the name Bust’n Loose. In 1999 the first breast cancer paddling team was formed. This founding team comprised of the following members: Marie-Louise B., Sue Bd., Bev B., Sue Bt., Jeanette C., Happy C., Eva C., Toni C., Joanie F., Marie F., Judy H., Moira J., Dru L., Cathie L., Carole M., Jenny M., Jacqui M., Monica M., Pat M., Dorothy N., Faith P., Marion R., Gladys R., Judy S., Jane S.

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OUR BOAT  "MURIEL'S SPIRIT"

After researching and pursuing the idea of purchasing our own boat, miraculously an email came to our website entitled, "Would you like your own boat?" 

It was discovered that Mrs. Muriel Needham's wish was to provide the Kelowna Breast Cancer Paddling Team with a dragon boat. Her children Donna and Jack carried out her wishes and we became the proud owners of our own boat, which we christened "Muriel's Spirit."