A team of breast cancer survivors from Saskatoon is embarking on an international journey in a dragon boat. The group, known as Busting with Energy, is set to compete in France against teams from various countries. Kerry Neal, a team member, expressed the profound sense of camaraderie and vitality that being on the water with fellow survivors brings. Neal discovered the team during her chemotherapy treatment and eagerly joined once she felt better. She emphasized the uplifting experience of being part of a group of nearly 40 individuals who have shared similar challenges.
The team humorously refers to themselves as “the team no one wants to join,” as membership is exclusive to those who have battled breast cancer. Many women, including Neal, have found relief from lymphedema, a post-surgery swelling condition, through dragon boating. This sport is highly beneficial for rebuilding muscles and lymph nodes affected by breast cancer operations.
The inception of breast cancer dragon boat teams dates back to 1996 in Vancouver when a medical group pioneered the idea. Initially, there were misconceptions that activities like canoeing could exacerbate post-surgery issues. However, the Vancouver team dispelled this myth, leading to the global popularity of breast cancer dragon boating.
Anne Eagle, the president of Busting with Energy, highlighted the team’s role in demonstrating that life can resume after breast cancer treatment. Despite the challenges, individuals can find strength and build lasting connections through shared experiences. Eagle, a member for six years following her own diagnosis 12 years ago, emphasized the importance of mutual support and inspiration within the group.
The team’s training regimen involves 12 weeks of dryland preparation starting in February, followed by on-water practices by May. The diverse team comprises women of varying ages and fitness levels, with some members in their 80s. Busting with Energy is among the 320 teams participating in the 2026 IBCPC Participatory Dragon Boat Festival in France, where over 4,500 breast cancer survivors worldwide will come together. The event symbolizes the growing community of breast cancer dragon boat racing teams, with over 50 teams in Canada and more than 210 globally.