Help Sandii Represent Aotearoa at the IBCPC Dragon Boat Festival – France 2026

In March 2017, at just 39 years old — only months away from turning 40 —my little Sister, Sandii faced one of the toughest battles of her life — when she was diagnosed with breast cancer.

Cancer is not new to our family. Our beautiful Mum fought her own courageous three-year battle with cancer. She was strong, loving, powerful, and the heart of our family.

When Sandii was diagnosed, it was terrifying. But she faced it with the same quiet strength Mum had. She underwent treatment and surgery. She fought. And she survived!

A few years later, Sandii found her way to dragon boating — and it became a turning point.

The physical impact of cancer treatment had taken a toll on her strength, but dragon boating rebuilt it. Driven by a desire to create a supportive and positive environment, Sandii and a small group of others went on to establish Manawa Dragons — a club built on encouragement, inclusion, and team spirit. Today, Manawa Dragons is a strong and supportive team of women and men.

Now Sandii has been selected to join a team of incredible Kiwi Breast Cancer Survivors representing Aotearoa at the International Breast Cancer Paddlers’ Commission (IBCPC) Dragon Boat Festival in France 2026.

This global event, held every three to four years, and is a celebration of life, resilience, and strength.

If you’re able to donate — big or small — you are helping send a Breast Cancer Survivor to represent New Zealand with pride.

If you unable to donate, please share.

"Mum, this one’s for you."