Dragons Abreast Travels to Vancouver for a Historic Celebration! Posted on: 10 February 2025

🌎 Honoring 30 Years of Breast Cancer Paddling 🌎

In a momentous event, Dragons Abreast paddlers will be traveling to Vancouver, Canada, on June 21-22, 2025, to join paddlers from around the world in celebrating the 30th Anniversary of the original Breast Cancer dragon boat team – Abreast In A Boat!

This celebration marks a historic milestone for the global Breast Cancer paddling community. It all began in 1995 when Abreast In A Boat was formed in Vancouver, following the groundbreaking research of Dr. Don McKenzie at the University of British Columbia.

The Research That Changed Lives

For many years, breast cancer survivors were advised to avoid repetitive upper-body exercise due to concerns about developing lymphedema. However, Dr. Don McKenzie, a sports medicine physician and exercise physiologist, challenged this belief. Through scientific study, he demonstrated that dragon boat paddling was not only safe for survivors but actually beneficial in reducing the risk of lymphedema, improving strength, fitness, and emotional well-being.

His pioneering work revolutionized the approach to post-cancer recovery and laid the foundation for what is now a global Breast Cancer paddling movement, empowering thousands of survivors around the world.

Why This Event is Special

✔️ A tribute to the pioneers of Breast Cancer dragon boating
✔️ A chance to paddle alongside international teams in unity and celebration
✔️ A reminder of the strength, courage, and community that dragon boating fosters
✔️ An opportunity to share stories, create new memories, and inspire future generations

For 30 years, Breast Cancer paddlers have shown the world that life after diagnosis can be vibrant, active, and full of possibility. Now, we come together in Vancouver to honor the past, celebrate the present, and inspire the future.

Stay tuned for more details as we prepare for this incredible journey!

💖 Together, we paddle stronger! 💖