Life is unpredictable. It can be tough, passionate and real especially when cancer, the dreaded “C”, comes like a thief in the night. Cancer with its many faces challenges its victims, young and old, to show their fighting spirit and will to live.
Last year, I was a “newbie” on the K4C team. Like the other paddlers, I felt compelled to do something as I had seen so many family and friends fall to this horrible disease. I soon became indoctrinated into the K4C family which was comprised of young and old alike. Many stories were shared on how cancer had touched their lives. Trips were dedicated. Those that grieved were comforted, survivors celebrated and those still fighting were supported. Yes, tears were shed and hugs were given. There were times of quiet reflection. Laughter and songs, on and off the water, lifted the spirits of the paddlers for no matter what the weather, they could always make their own sunshine. This little group, supported by family and friends showed their courage and determination that in mind and spirit cancer can be beaten.
At that time, little did I realize that this “thief” was already at my door. Three weeks after the K4C 2012 journey, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was now my turn to confront this Beast that filled me with fear and left me in shock and disbelief. I had to find the courage to face my fears and fight with hope. It was a journey that I would not have chosen. It tested my very being.
Unlike others that have lost their struggle with cancer and now lay at peace, my prognosis is good. I am blessed by my faith and the love and support of my beloved family and friends. For this and the knowledge and skill of my oncology team, made possible by funding from groups like K4C, I will be forever grateful. However, I will not forget my family and friends who have slipped away. Although their loss has filled me with sorrow, their courage has taught me so much. I will be paddling in their memory.
So, once again, I have reunited with my K4C family. But this time, it is different. I will be paddling as a “survivor”. I have learned from the very heart and soul of “Kayaking for Cancer” that I too will not be a victim to this disease. I paddle to offer hope to those still struggling, support to those who have been there and to those who do not know what is ahead of them.
I have been offered a chance, with family and friends, to make a difference. As we dip our paddles into the water, I know that I am blessed. “Kayaking for Cancer” has touched my life. “Our paddles will not cease”. Embraced by love, together we journey in remembrance and hope. For love, will conquer all!
Jeanette Berry
The battle of the blades continues as the 2013 kayaking family digs their paddles into the water for the final trek into Ottawa.
It has been an emotional journey for a lot of members this trip. We have stopped along the river and had moments of silence remembering loved ones who have lost the battle with the dreaded disease. We have celebrated five members who are cancer survivors. We have come along side of one of our kayaking sisters who lost a good friend to the disease while paddling.
Tears of sorrow, tears of anger, tears of joyous memories we leave along the Rideau River. Tears of healing!
My journey has been in memory of my husband Brent who died unexpected in April of cancer. And a mixed emotion of being a cancer survivor myself being four months post op as I write this. It has been an experience of lessons in healing and love as my kayaking family comes along side of me with prayers, carrying my kayak, my gear, helping me with my tent, words of comfort and condolences and sometimes paddling no words needed. I thank all of you!
The satisfaction of being actively involved in trying to make a difference with family and friends carries us along the way. God Bless until next year.
Paddles up until the battle is won!
My prayer is that people will find what Brent and myself have in Christ.
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world He gave His only begotten Son that who so ever believe in Him shall not perish (die) but have everlasting life”.
So to my late husband “until we meet again”!
With love and prayers to everyone.
Darlene Dopson
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