It was once believed that survivors of breast cancer should limit their physical activity and avoid any difficult exercise for fear of lymphedema or other complications. In 1995, a sports medicine doctor from the University of British Columbia, Dr. Donald McKenzie, set out to disprove this popular notion.  His theory:  Strenuous, repetitive exercise would increase strength and fitness in a team setting that “builds harmony and a feeling of togetherness.” 

With 24 volunteers, ranging in age from 31 to 62, Dr. McKenzie formed the very first dragon boat team comprised of all breast cancer survivors, Abreast in a Boat.  The results were staggering.  The women became stronger physically and psychologically.  Even after the research was completed, no one would stop paddling.  As the paddling increased, so did the camaraderie.  They had taken control of the dragon and they were winning. It all started with “let’s put together a dragon boat team of women living with breast cancer.” Now The Dragon Dream Team of Ohio is among the more than 150 breast cancer survivor teams around the world that is demonstrating the courage of the dragon and the power of the paddle.