Friends, paddlers, supporters, all gathered here today at the water’s edge for Awaken. This ceremony marks the vibrant start of a new season for the Annapolis Dragon Boat Club — a team that embodies not just the spirit of competition, but the very essence of hope and resilience.
We know that in our own Anne Arundel County, the need for this spirit is significant. In 2022, cancer was the second leading cause of death. From 2016 to 2020, breast cancer and prostate cancer saw the highest rates of new diagnoses right here in our community. And sadly, breast cancer also holds the second-highest mortality rate in our county during that same period. We also know that breast cancer death rates are even higher for our Black Non-Hispanic residents.
But amidst these sobering statistics, there shines a beacon of proactive change: the Annapolis Dragon Boat Club. You are more than just a paddling team; you are a vital force for wellness and recovery for individuals impacted by breast cancer and all cancers. Your dedication creates a ripple effect of positivity throughout our community.
And the work doesn’t stop here. ADBC is actively reaching out to underserved communities, working to close the health disparity gap. The Anne Arundel County Department of Health’s Breast and Cervical Cancer program is a crucial partner in this effort, connecting eligible, uninsured, or underinsured women with vital screenings. Many of the women that the Department of Health serves are from our Hispanic community, and the Department of Health is prioritizing increased screening for Black women.
This is where ADBC’s impact becomes even more profound. By sharing information about these vital screening programs, you can directly help us reach more individuals in need.
And what is the vehicle for this incredible impact? Dragon boating itself. Research has shown that this isn’t just a sport; it’s a powerful tool for healing.
Consider the benefits: improved cardiovascular fitness and increased lower limb strength. For survivors navigating the physical aftermath of treatment, these are tangible steps towards reclaiming their bodies. Importantly, dragon boating is a safe exercise that may even reduce the risk of lymphedema, a significant concern for many breast cancer survivors. Participants often experience an enhanced body image and a renewed sense of confidence.
Beyond the physical, the mental and emotional well-being fostered by dragon boating is transformative. The rhythmic paddling and the powerful sense of teamwork act as a stress reliever. Studies have shown improvements in mental quality of life, including emotional well-being. The team environment cultivates a profound sense of belonging and community, directly combating the isolation that cancer can bring. Many also report improved sleep quality and reduced feelings of depression.
So, as we embark on this new season, I have a call to action for every single person here today, whether you are a dedicated ADBC member or a supportive friend. To our ADBC members: continue to be the incredible force you are. Share your stories, your strength, and information about the vital resources available through the Department of Health. Your presence is a testament to the possibility of a healthy and joyful survivorship.
To everyone else: learn about the Annapolis Dragon Boat Club and the incredible work they do. Consider how you might support their efforts, whether through volunteering, spreading awareness, or simply cheering them on from the shore.
I applaud the Annapolis Dragon Boat Club. You are not just a fitness group; you are a wellness community — a powerful model for holistic survivorship. Today, we celebrate the start of your season, and we stand with you in your vital mission.
Remarks by Jennifer A. Schneider, MS, RN
Director, Bureau of Disease Prevention and Management
Anne Arundel County Department of Health
At the Awaken the Dragon ceremony on Saturday, May 17, 2025
