I was diagnosed with breast cancer during the 2020 pandemic and two years later with endometrial cancer. Throughout my treatments, I kept my fears closely guarded and stoically convinced myself that this was my journey now and I had to navigate it alone. Unless you have heard the words “you have cancer” you can’t understand the weight of them.
I love being on the water and always thought dragon boating looked like a fun sport. When a friend mentioned in 2024 that there was a cancer survivor dragon boat team that practiced on the Charles River, I was immediately interested. In the spring of 2025, I connected with a Wellness Warriors team member who told me I had perfect timing, their first practice of the season was just days away.
On a cold, rainy evening in April 2025, I got in the boat with Wellness Warriors for my first practice. Having been a distance runner for many years, I immediately loved this new sport, the challenge, the rush of endorphins but most importantly, I had found a
family.
Therese (lower left) with Wellness Warriors at the 2025 race in Hartford, CT
Every practice is filled with encouragement, shared strength, and a quiet understanding that doesn’t require explanation. Cancer can be an isolating and frightening experience, but in the boat everyone understands what it means to persevere through uncertainty and adversity. We lift one another up, celebrate every victory, and bring light, laughter, and energy into each other’s lives.
Together, we turn challenges into adventures. We paddle hard, push past our limits, and discover that we are stronger than we ever imagined. The physical benefits are undeniable, but the sense of community is what truly transforms lives.
After two cancer diagnoses, including one during the most isolating days of the pandemic, Wellness Warriors gave me something I didn’t realize I was missing: strength, hope, friendship, and a profound sense of belonging. It taught me that survivorship can be a beautiful, shared journey.