About us

Our STORY

Sistership consists of breast cancer survivors from Calgary and the surrounding area.

It was started in 1998 by a group of women, each of whom experienced breast cancer, and were the first breast cancer dragon boat racing team in Alberta. Their commitment to dragon boating became symbolic in their quest to support each other, restore their health and rebuild confidence that was eroded by a cancer diagnosis.

Belonging to Sistership means uniting together to achieve common goals. Members have year-round fitness expectations, plus twice-weekly training on the water from May to September with our dedicated coaching staff. Thanks to membership commitment, Sistership enjoys success in competitions in Canada and internationally.

Working together in the spirit of camaraderie and understanding, Sistership members demonstrate strength and determination. This message is important for all members, families, supporters, and others recently diagnosed with breast cancer.

Our Mission

To provide opportunities, through the sport of dragon boating, for people diagnosed with breast cancer to:

  • Foster wellness 
  • Partner with the community
  • Heighten the profile and importance of breast health

Why We Paddle

Dragon boating gives us back something cancer tried to take — strength, breath, rhythm, and each other. We paddle because the boat is where we feel most alive: lungs full, hearts open, twenty paddles moving as one toward the same horizon. Every stroke is a quiet declaration that we are still here, still strong, and not doing this alone.

Our VALUES

Dignity

Honouring the inherent worth of every individual by treating one another with respect, appreciation, and compassion. We create an environment where all members feel safe, seen, valued, and supported.

“We are Stronger Together” –supporting one another, sharing strengths, and collaborating toward shared goals. Teamwork values respect, inclusiveness, and the understanding that every contribution, big or small, helps the whole group succeed.
Taking responsibility for our actions, decisions, and commitments. It  includes following through on what we say we will do, being transparent when  challenges arise, and owning both successes and mistakes.
Sharing information honestly, respectfully, and in a timely way  so everyone can understand, contribute, and make informed decisions. It includes  listening actively, asking questions, and creating space where all voices feel safe and valued.
Commitment to continuous improvement—individually and collectively. It  means learning from experience, embracing change, and taking steady steps toward  better outcomes.

“We have come together as Sistership – to break the silence of cancer, to reaffirm ourselves, and to demonstrate to others that cancer brings about a change in life, not always an end to it.

We have come together as Sistership – to motivate ourselves and each other through our group involvement and to laugh together as we exercise a healthy lifestyle.

We have come together as Sistership – to learn to trust our bodies again, to banish the enemy within, and to see ourselves as vital, healthy women with a race to finish.

We have come together as Sistership – to finish the race.  Working together as a team and sharing the commitment of preparation is how we win.”

Jennifer Sass ’98

Member of Sistership’s first crew