​

The Connection Between Dragon Boating and Breast Cancer
The connection between breast cancer survivors and dragon boat paddling began in 1996 with Dr. Don McKenzie, a Canadian sports medicine physician. He investigated whether upper-body exercise affected lymphedema, a common swelling after breast cancer surgery. Contrary to popular belief, Dr. McKenzie discovered that such exercise could improve range of motion, muscle strength, and immune response without worsening lymphedema, and published his findings in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.
Formation of Abreast in a Boat
Dr. McKenzie formed "Abreast in a Boat," a group training breast cancer survivors in dragon boat paddling. Although his research did not definitively prove that paddling reduced lymphedema, it showed the condition did not worsen. Participants found a new way to cope with their diagnoses, gaining fitness, health, and happiness. The camaraderie and support among paddlers helped them regain control of their lives, and they used dragon boat paddling to raise awareness about breast cancer and the resilience of survivors.
Global Impact
The movement quickly spread across Canada and internationally, as survivors recognized the benefits of dragon boat paddling. These inspiring individuals connected globally, offering support and encouragement while raising public awareness of breast cancer and survivor resilience.
Since 1996, dragon boat paddling for breast cancer survivors has grown worldwide, with representatives from countries like Australia, Italy, New Zealand, Singapore, Poland, and the United States. In 2005, Vancouver hosted an international event with over 2,000 survivors, followed by "Abreast in Australia" in 2007 and a festival in Peterborough, Canada, in 2010. These events offered survivors opportunities to network, attend workshops, paddle, and celebrate life. The next international festival is planned for France in 2026.