DRAGON TALES
August 2011

Dragon Tales by Phyllis Parker
Abreast A River Team Member

Our Racing season is over for this year, however our boat Abreast a River will be on the waters of the East River for about two more months. Regular twice weekly practices will go on until October.

Our race season began in May at the Moncton Dragon Boat Festival, followed by the Sydney Dragon Boat Festival in July. The Cape Breastoners Breast Cancer Dragon Boat Team were celebrating their 10th Anniversary. A day of fun paddling on the Mira, a banquet and all the usual race events filled a three day week-end.

Our home town event Race On The River is the festival that we enjoy the most. We have been paddling on the East River for thirteen years and know it well. Changing tides, rough water, calm water, heavy winds, no breeze have all helped teach us how to paddle here. It was also a happy time this year to be celebrating the 10th Anniversary of Race On The River.

Roger Swarbrick and all the community-minded people who first helped organize Race On The River have created an ongoing event to be proud of. The breast cancer teams who come to join us in Pictou County say they always look forward to racing in New Glasgow. They always feel welcome and at home here.

More than a million dollars has been raised during 10 years of racing. The importance of this financial resource is immense. The money that comes from Pictou County citizens is always directed back, by the receiving charities toward Pictou County needs. Women Alike are continually indebted for the overwhelming support Race On The River receives. That financial support allows Women Alike to do so much in our community.

Over the past 10 years we have been able to donate toward breast cancer research here in Nova Scotia, purchase equipment for the Aberdeen Hospital which will provide the best possible care to breast cancer patients,and also provide assistance to Pictou County women without adequate medical plans. Many would be unable to cover needs brought on by their cancer without the help they receive from our Race On The River funds.

Over the years we have donated toward The Lodge That Gives in Halifax. This is a place where care and comfort are always provided. Many Pictou County cancer patients are able to stay, cost free, at this facility when they require appointments and treatments in Halifax. Our most recent donation to The Lodge of $15,000 has come from last year's Race On The River funds.

There are so many things happening because Race On The River happens. When we hear the resounding cheers during breast cancer races, and the silence of our Pink Carnation Ceremony we know we are home. This is our event to love and enjoy!

For further information on Cancer call the Canadian Cancer Society Information Line at 1-888-939-333

For further information on cancer call the Canadian Cancer Society Information Line at 1-888-939-3333