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Who We Are

The River Sisters Dragon Boat Team is committed to fostering strength, wellness, and camaraderie for women who have survived all types of cancer. In addition, we participate in community service and contribute to the well-being and support of those undergoing cancer treatment in the Delaware Valley. Our participation as a survivor team in dragon boat competitions and festivals reinforces our purpose to work together to provide encouragement and hope to others who have experienced the devastating diagnosis of cancer.

Our Mission

  • Raise awareness of cancer and the benefits of dragon boat racing

  • Show and mentor others who are weakened by the struggle with cancer that there is life after this disease

  • Encourage and empower ourselves and others to face their dragons with an indomitable spirit

  • Contribute to the well-being and support of those undergoing cancer treatment

  • Look beyond today, to a future filled with hope and promise

What is Dragon Boating?

Dragon Boat Racing has ancient Chinese origins and its history has been traced back more than 2000 years. The first participants were superstitious Chinese villagers who celebrated the 5th day of the 5th lunar month of the Chinese calendar. Racing was held to avert misfortune and encourage the rains needed for prosperity – and the object of their worship was the dragon, the dragon of Asia has traditionally been a symbol of water. It is said to rule the rivers and seas and dominate the clouds and rains. Click HERE for more information.

What is a Dragon Boat?

A dragon boat is a 40-foot long, very stable boat, similar in shape to a canoe. There are 10 seats in the boat and 20 paddlers who sit 2 abreast in the seats. There is a drummer who sits in the front of the boat facing the paddlers. There is a steer person who stands at the back of the boat. On race days, the boats are adorned with a very colorful dragon head and tail. Paddling is done in sync with the lead strokes to the beat of the drum.

Dragon Boating & Cancer Survivors

 In 1994. women diagnosed with breast cancer had long been told: that repetitive upper body motion — even raking leaves — could cause a condition called lymphedema, a swelling that’s relatively common in the arms of breast cancer survivors who have had lymph nodes removed. However, more recent studies have proven the benefits of exercise after breast cancer treatment.  Click on link above to read article.

Rivers Sisters is recognized as a non-profit, tax-exempt organization under Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3) All donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law.

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