Betty

In the summer of 2013, I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer. Having lost my mother to breast cancer when I was just 21, I was determined to confront this disease with every ounce of strength I had. Inspired by her brave battle and driven by a desire to be a role model for women and girls, I faced my diagnosis with confidence and courage. As a mother of two daughters and an educator at an all-girls school, I understood the profound impact of demonstrating strength and perseverance. I continued working throughout my treatment and surgery, finding that staying active and engaged was a vital source of strength for me. I was committed to “fighting like a girl.”

In 2019, after 25 fulfilling years in education, I retired and my husband and I became snowbirds, relocating to Florida in November. Faced with the challenge of making new friends, a Florida-based friend suggested I try Dragon Boating, noting that many breast cancer survivors participated in this sport. I had no idea what Dragon Boating was, but I decided to give it a try. I discovered a local breast cancer survivor team and was immediately drawn to the sport’s connections with breast cancer survival and its team-based nature. What started as a new activity soon became a passion and a vital part of my life, connecting me with a supportive and vibrant community.

When I returned to Philadelphia, I sought out a team to continue paddling during my time away from Florida. I found Hope Afloat and, despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, my dedication to Dragon Boating never wavered. Once back on the water, I not only found a team that kept me competitive during the summer months but also discovered a camaraderie and sisterhood with a new group of survivors. The members of Hope Afloat have truly enriched my life, and I feel fortunate to be part of such an inspiring community.

Today, I balance my life between Pennsylvania and Florida, cherishing the new friendships, competitive challenges, and sense of purpose that Dragon Boating has brought me. My journey as a breast cancer survivor is a powerful reminder of the strength found in community and the endless possibilities that lie beyond adversity.