Member Profile: Meredith

by Meredith Leary Johnson, 2023

I was diagnosed on January 13, 2021. I was soon to turn 50 years old and had promised myself to do all the “routine doctor appointments” even in the face of Covid-19 that still had most of us closed up. And it was most likely this extra weird world that had me asking all my doctors and physical therapists “But how do I live now?”.

Breast cancer survivors know that just about everything feels different, looks different, moves differently after cancer treatments. Dr. Nancy Hutchinson was maybe a little exasperated with me when the lightbulb went off. “Have you heard of the Dragon Divas?” I said no but those two words alone sounded inspiring and hopeful so twenty minutes later I was on the website and making a phone call. Talking to founding member Mary Skrypek was an incredible relief - she understood the yearning to learn how to get moving in the world and the trepidation of trying something completely new. Knowing I would be side by side with other breast cancer survivors was the trust I needed. 

I have one full season of paddling under my life jacket now. I feel so invigorated and supported by this incredible group of women. We are a boat full of “yes!” We understand we have already won any competition because we have gotten into the boat. Becoming a Dragon Diva has given my family and friends confidence that I am taking my health and strength seriously while having new adventures.

If you have just finished treatment or thought you were done thinking about being a breast cancer survivor, come out to Lake Gervais on a Monday evening or Saturday morning and see what fun and inspiration you too can be a part of. This is a kind and generous group of women who want to make the most of every day we are so grateful to enjoy.