No one in my family has breast cancer. So when I (seriously miraculously) found a lump in early 2017, I was shocked. It was aggressive stage 1b, triple negative invasive ductal carcinoma. After a lumpectomy with complications, 16 weeks of AC/T chemo, and 6 weeks of daily radiation, I was a wreck - emotionally and physically. After researching some breast cancer organizations in the Philadelphia area I came across Hope Afloat. I had no idea what dragon boating was, but I knew that a group of women that gathered to do something with physical and emotional benefits sounded like fun and something I might be able to do - Hope Afloat members can be any age, any ability.

With no boating or paddling experience (ever!) I wasn’t sure what to expect, but after the first practice I was completely hooked. Because of Hope Afloat, I am connected to a true team of women that understand and CARE. I am now strong, capable and seriously competitive.

We all have our own individual story, but are connected by some form of breast cancer - Hope Afloat and the women I now call sisters are most definitely a giant silver lining. There is nothing like being on the river with my team on a gorgeous summer night with the sun starting to set. I am forever grateful for this experience in my life.