Pink Dragons - Breast Cancer Dragon Boating Team - Newsletter

NEWSLETTER

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	We are the second breast cancer dragon boating team in Auckland, and the sixth team in New Zealand. We began as a mixed team in 2005 with the help of a number of non-breast cancer survivor paddlers, but became 100% breast cancer survivors for the 2006-07 season. We participated in a fun festival at Takapuna Beach, and competed in the Tauranga Super Twelves, but it was at the Auckland Festival and the Nationals in Christchurch where we rewarded our coach and ourselves by achieving our best times yet. We also found travelling together as a team a great bonding experience. We had so much fun, and ended the paddling season on a high note.
We suffered some withdrawal pangs once our regular contact with each other was put on hold, but we heeded coach Graeme's advice that, for the success of the team, we really needed to take a break over winter. Our mission is to show our fellow breast cancer survivors that life is for living! After being swept along in the process of diagnosis, surgery, treatment, medication and supervision, we could feel rather helpless. Participation in this physically demanding sport has been empowering. We have benefitted from learning new skills, improving our fitness, feeling positive, and being part of a wonderful support group working together to achieve a goal.
	Graeme has made a special award for Team Member of the Year, and the inaugural recipient was Lindsay Scott (pictured), who exemplified all that our team aspires to. She never let the tribulations of her treatment get in the way of her commitment to the team. We are looking ahead to the next season, starting in October. Our team is still growing, so we would like to hear from anyone who wishes to join us. Please phone Robin on 630 6423 (home), or 021 146 8381.

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