Ima

There is something about being on the water that nourishes the part of me that craves calm and freedom. So when my Livestrong buddy Vartus asked me if I would be interested in joining Wellness Warriors, a dragon boat team for cancer survivors, it was an immediate and enthusiastic YES! I knew nothing about the sport of dragon boating, and I had never learned how to paddle or row. But fortunately I was so excited about the possibility of getting access to Charles River, that any doubts about my ability to paddle competitively with a team were buried on the spot.

 

The first practice was so exciting. Besides having a grin on my face the whole time, even though I had no idea what I was doing, I immediately felt such comfort sitting on the boat with 19 other cancer survivors, all of us taking one stroke at a time in unison (ok ok we were really bad at the unison thing at that first practice), towards better health. The camaraderie was quite powerful for me, even though I didn’t know the team yet. Just a bunch of survivors, supporting each other, fighting together, no words needed.

 

I quickly found out that Wellness Warriors is a very organized, active, and supportive group of wonderful people. We focus on staying healthy through exercise, and although cancer is not a hot topic during our practices, there are always friendly ears ready to listen to your story, with understanding and support.

 

Going to dragon boat races is an added bonus. It is a totally fun and exciting way to spend a day or a weekend. And it is an important “me” time for this busy mom, who wants nothing more than to stay healthy and nourished for years to come.

 

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