The Dragon Divas is a lively, active alternative support group for breast cancer survivors serving the Minneapolis-St. Paul area and Western Wisconsin. Together we use the sport of dragon boating to find community and healing. We are always open to new members.
Featured
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Founder Mary's Story
Mary Skrypek led the effort in 2006 to create the first breast cancer survivor dragon boat club in Minnesota, the Dragon Divas. We are so grateful!
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Dragon Boating Supports Health
Dragon boating isn’t just fun — it’s good for you too. Research has proven it! Learn more about the science.
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Coach Michael's Story
Michael Lee has been the Divas head coach since 2021 and appreciates what the Dragon Divas stand for – sisterhood and community always come first.
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Jennifer D's Reflections
Jennifer shares how Arizona paddling camp was healing in so many ways.
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Jennifer W's Reflections
“Being a part of the Divas has taught me more than I ever imagined and set me on a personal journey I did not expect.”
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Meredith's Story
After her first full season of paddling, Meredith felt so invigorated and supported by her Dragon Diva teammates. In her words, we are a boat full of “yes!” and understand we have already won any competition because we have gotten into the boat.
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Celeste's Story
Celeste denDaas has always loved being outdoors and immersing herself in various forms of physical activity.
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Support Breast Cancer Survivors
Your gift in any amount helps us achieve our mission. Make your secure online gift today.
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Chancey's Story
Chancey Anderson was just two years past her treatment for lymphoma when she was diagnosed with breast cancer.
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Ione's Story
“Had I not had breast cancer, I would have never had the opportunity to meet these people.”
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Exercise is Medicine
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month! Research shows exercise is an important part of preventing breast cancer recurrence and improving quality of life during survivorship.
Watch the Dragon Divas in action!
Taken in New Zealand, this short video gives you just a taste of the Dragon Divas gliding across the water together at a competition. It’s a great example of our physical fitness and teamwork.
©Jimmy Ryan
Upcoming Events
We turn the model of meeting around a table in a medical facility upside down. Our support happens on the water, in the gym, and during events.
Members-only programming includes the practices and training you’d expect but also includes book clubs, social gatherings and so much more. The Dragon Divas enjoy enrichment year-round, even in the off-season. Our events also include public programs, like local fundraisers that make our programming possible, as well as dragon boating competitions that happen here in Minnesota and all over the world.
This Month’s Events
Why I Paddle