Dragon boat event for breast cancer survivors this weekend

All breast cancer survivors are invited to form a team and take part in the first-ever Breast Cancer Dragon Boat event in Gauteng (and third in South Africa) this December at Florida Lake.

According to Ina Meiring, a cancer survivor for 13 years and a regular dragon boater in Cape Town says, “This will be the first of its kind in Gauteng. Existing teams in Cape Town and Potchefstroom are doing well and we are only waiting for Gauteng to get on the boats. All breast cancer and other cancer patients are welcome.

“We are looking for women who would like a challenge and wanting change and fun in their lives.”

Ina adds, “The boats will be introduced on Saturday 7 December 2013 followed by the actual get-together for the New Year paddling event on Tuesday 21 January 2014.

“Join us to see for yourself and then decide if you want to be part of other dynamic women sharing the same experience in one dragon boat.

“We will be having fun and at the same time doing exercise that is so helpful for cancer patients. Breast cancer patients sometimes struggle with lymphoedema and it was found that dragon boat racing helps healing the arms of many breast cancer patients.”

One would then ask, but why dragon boating?

Ina explains: “breast cancer survivors who participate in dragon boat racing will experience improved physical and mental health to cope better post recovery trauma, substantiated by Dr Catherine Sabiston of McGill’s Department of Kinesiology and Physical Education Canada study”.

According to Dr Sabiston, changing the focus and exercise enhances the body, mind and soul and helps with lymphoedema swelling to go down. A positive outlook and emotional wellbeing will release daily trouble from stress and strain.

Those interested can contact Ina on 078 969 7400 or email her at meiring.ina@gmail.com