30 years ago, research identified Dragonboat paddling as a way to promote and support good physical and mental health following treatment for breast cancer. We found that for one group of women, it has become much more than that.
Recently we were lucky enough to be invited to spend a Saturday morning aboard a dragon boat with local charity, Oxford Paddlers For Life.
Eager but inexperienced paddlers, we were quickly put at ease by the team’s coach, who ensured everyone was loosened up with a quick warm-up session. A safety briefing was followed by buoyancy aids being fitted and paddles handed out. Minutes later we found ourselves being launched into something quite unique. And as we quickly learned, what started as a complimentary exercise therapy helping those involved with their physical recovery has turned into something much bigger.
Studies have shown that gentle upper body exercise, particularly paddling, can help reduce the risk of lymphedema, improve mobility, and support emotional well-being after breast surgery.
But what no study could fully capture is the bond of friendship these women have forged through their time together on the water.
In 1996 Canadian sports medical specialist, Dr Don McKenzie, started a Dragon Boat team to explore the benefits of regular, repetitive, strenuous exercise following breast cancer surgery. His research focused on enhancing lymph flow to increase the effectiveness of the immune system. Unusually he insisted the project should be in a pleasing and socially supportive environment.
It was groundbreaking research and the results were hugely successful. The participants all demonstrated improved mental and physical health, and reported enjoying the camaraderie and support of fellow paddlers. They realised it was a means to raise awareness of breast cancer and the ability of survivors to lead normal lives, so they invited other survivors to share the experience and they went on to compete in races.
In 2010 the International Breast Cancer Paddlers’ commission was established to encourage the establishment of breast cancer dragon boat teams, within the framework of participation and inclusiveness.
By 2024 there were over 380 teams of Breast Cancer Paddlers based across 40 countries around the world.
Although each paddler is encouraged to go at their own pace, it’s serious stuff. The qualified onboard coach ensured our posture was correct to make sure we each made the most of the opportunity to exercise those upper back muscles, without injuring ourselves.
As a team we paddled at first in short stints, each time gradually increasing our effort and stamina. To help improve our teamwork, a blind paddling exercise followed. With eyes closed, what began with the occasional clash of paddles soon gave way to what sounded more like teamwork as we were encouraged to feel the movement of the boat. All under the watchful eyes of our helmsman who ensured we didn’t veer too far off course!
It soon became clear that a deeper sense of connection had formed, and by the end of our session on the water, we had enjoyed the weather, the view and each other’s company. Frequent shouts of Heron, Oyster Catcher or Cormorant identified just some of the wildlife we were sharing the lake with. Dragonflies too took a great interest in the Dragonboat, whilst aboard we found a sense of peace and wellbeing that none of us expected.
Afterwards we were able to reflect on the session on the water with a cup of tea and a slice of cake with the beautiful lake now serving as our backdrop. One paddler, Michelle, explained her involvement:
I joined Oxford Paddlers for Life a couple of years after I finished breast cancer treatment. From the start its has been a lovely group of people working together to provide an amazing activity that is great fun for anyone, but is particularly beneficial for women who have had breast cancer. I very much enjoy our regular paddles, and spending time with our other members. Everyone is very friendly and supportive. You can do as much or as little as you are able to on the day, so no pressure to be competitive.
Meeting bi-weekly, Oxford Paddlers for Life are always welcoming of new members. What unites them isn’t only their shared experiences with cancer, it’s their shared passion for nature, movement, and a love of being outdoors.
Their story is a reminder of the power of community in recovery, and how even the most difficult journeys can lead to self-discovery and even joy.
To the Oxford Paddlers for Life, we say thank you for your warm welcome, and for showing us how healing happens not just through treatment.
If you live in the Oxford area and are interested in learning more, you can contact the group via their website or email them at info@oxfordpfl.org.
We are keen to hear what other activities supporters are taking part in to help them with their recovery. If you are interested in sharing something that works for you, or you have any suggestions for us, we would love to hear from you. Please do get in touch.