Boobops Dragon Boat team is raising money and will use the funds to encourage survivors of breast cancer to exercise in a fun and supportive environment with other survivors. Photo/supplied
Boobops Dragon Boat team is raising money and will use the funds to encourage survivors of breast cancer to exercise in a fun and supportive environment with other survivors. Photo/supplied
Kerre McIvor is in town next month speaking at an event to raise money for a dragon boat racing team.
It's no ordinary team, however - the Boobop Dragon Boat racers are survivors of breast cancer and joined the team as part of their physical and psychological rehabilitation.
Paddling andexercise helps the upper body bounce back after surgery, as well as reduces the chance of lymphedema, and the recurrence of further cancer. As well as helping maintain physical health, being part of a team helps recover emotionally.
"Research estimates that up to 80 per cent of women suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder following breast cancer and participating in a team sport with other survivors offers that opportunity to be with people who have experienced a similar journey," said team captain Julie Sach.
"While the focus is on recovery, there is a strong sense of support and understanding for what each person has been through. "The focus is then on fitness, health, fun, competition, teamwork, friendship, goal setting, self-worth, self-acceptance, camaraderie and achievement," she says.
Age is no barrier to getting cancer, or of being in the team, and paddlers have been as young as 23 up to people aged in their 70s.
The Busting Out event includes a three course meal. Money raised will go towards travel costs to compete in national competitions as well as the Breast Cancer Dragon Boat World Competition in Italy in 2018.
the fine print What: Kerre McIvor Busting Out Where: ASB Function Rooms When: Saturday, November 19. Tickets: $85 per head. Email: boobopsinfo@gmail.com
