And briefly...
It is more than 10 years since the Great Dragon breathed her fire on a few passionate women who were destined to take her message of hope and inspiration to Australian women who had experienced breast cancer.
The first dragon boat team for breast cancer survivors in Australia was formed in 1998 in Darwin by Michelle Hanton, Founding Director of Dragons Abreast Australia. They were followed by Australia’s second Territory, Canberra, and this group was led by Anna Wellings Booth. Michelle and Anna collaborated, planned, dreamed and encouraged Janelle Gamble, current Board Director of DAA, to start a group in Brisbane and from those initial three women, the Great Dragon took flight across the length and breadth of Australia.
The organisation that is now known as Dragons Abreast Australia (DAA) has grown into the peak body for breast cancer survivor paddling groups around the nation and is a member of the Australian Dragon Boat Federation www.ausdbf.com.au) and the International Breast Cancer Paddlers Commission www.ibcpc.com). Members adopt a set of common guiding principles and adhere to the philosophy of participation and inclusiveness.
The members that race in dragon boats are the very public face of Dragons Abreast Australia. To those who are newly diagnosed with breast cancer they are an inspiration and to the wider community, a demonstration of tenacity in not being cowed by the disease. Dragons Abreast Australia strives to promote awareness of breast cancer until such time as this insidious disease is beaten.
A Dragon’s Tale- An inspirational tale of courage, laughter, strength and friendship by women with breast cancer
A Dragon’s Tale is a graphic example of the journey the Great Dragon has led them over the past years. There are stories from member groups across Australia, of laughter, friendship, courage, sadness and throughout a wonderful sense of purpose and togetherness as the pink dragons gain support from one another on life’s journey.
A Dragon’s Tale will inspire you, make you laugh, perhaps shed a tear for those who have moved on to our Angel’s Abreast team and give hope and strength to newly diagnosed women.
RRP $35 for this beautiful 152 page full colour publication.
For more information please visit www.dragonsabreast.com.au. To order a copy of A Dragon's Tale please click here