MEMBERS:
Janet Keeling
I was diagnosed in November 2004 aged 40. I had a lumpectomy with full ancillary clearance followed by 6 weeks of radiotherapy. As part of a family history early screening program at Warrington Hospital this led to the cancer being identified very early.
I joined 'Pool of life' in May 2008 but my introduction to dragon boat racing came when I relocated my job to the US in 2006. I had been given a contact at the Philadelphia team, Hope Afloat USA. Not only was I hooked the very first time I paddled, I quickly discovered that it opened the doors to many wonderful friendships and an opportunity to travel across the US and Canada to races. The highlight was when we won 2 gold medals against 10 other Canadian and US breast cancer survivor teams in Montreal 2007.
On returning to the UK I was determined to continue with the sport and I was welcomed into the arms of 'Pool of LIfe'. Whilst the paddling weather is colder the friendship is every bit as warm and I look forward to adding to my medal collection with 'Pool of Life'.
Catherine Moore
I was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2007. I had a lumpectomy and it was found that four lymph nodes were affected. I had six months of chemotherapy and then fifteen sessions of radiotherapy.
I met members of Pool of Life through Sarah's Stars a young woman's support group in Warrington. I listened to them talk about the health benefits of paddling and thought it sounded challenging and interesting so expressed an interest. Sadly I was not allowed to paddle while on treatment, although I did take part in the canal paddle to raise funds.
I began training immediately after my treatment stopped and was lucky enough to travel to Sabaudia with the team where we won gold. If anyone had told me in December 2007 how far I would have moved on from the horror and fear you face in early diagnosis I am not sure I would have believed them. I am looking forward to many more years of paddling, and many more gold medals!
Ann O'Brien
Clare Flinn
Heather Ambridge
Karen Adams
Ann Ball
Linda Smith
I am 50 years old and was diagnosed in April 2008, following which I had a mastectomy (and reconstruction), 6 chemo sessions, 25 radiotherapy sessions and I have almost completed my 12 month course of herceptin. I have always been fit and active, but was looking for something a bit different after my recovery from cancer treatment. A breast care nurse at the Countess of Chester gave me a leaflet about Pool of Life and I joined the group in May 2009. I train once a week and enjoy the camaraderie that our shared cancer experience provides. I have raced once with the group, in Nottingham, and am looking forward to my second race meeting in Preston at the end of July. Its great to have turned my breast cancer experience into a force for good - not only do I have a new hobby, I have also decided to change my job (of 12 years) and I feel energized by these changes.
Lynda Whiston