Thrivers paddle and connect

A GROUP of cancer survivors, or Thrivers as they like to be called, take to the water every Wednesday to paddle, connect and make new friends.
The group is now into its second year, thanks to the support of local business owner Lachlan Stevens and his father Laurie, who were the driving force behind the inaugural Paddle in Pink event last year that saw Noosa Sound turn pink when over 180 paddlers took to the water to raise awareness and funds for cancer research.
Lachlan, who owns Boardwalk Boats, is always happy to welcome new participants to the Wednesday morning paddle sessions that start at 7.30am and leaves from the pontoon behind the Sofitel hotel on Hastings Street.
The group now includes local counsellor Sharon Lagden, who offers support throughout the morning paddle and said the benefits of the activity reached beyond the physical.
“We are all cancer survivors who want to get their lives back on track,” she said.
“We will support you and encourage you and you will feel a sense of achievement doing something out of your comfort zone.”
Sharon, who is a Thriver herself, said there was a range of things that drew the group together every Wednesday morning.
“It’s a chance to get out on the water in such beautiful surroundings. It’s an hour to spend with like-minded people who have become friends and to forget about everything else that is going on in our lives for just an hour and enjoy being alive,” she said.
“It’s great to know you are supported and you can say what you feel.”
As a cancer survivor, Sharon said she understood how hard the cancer journey could be.
“If by being part of the (Wednesday morning paddles) allows me to help and support others on their journey, then I am grateful for that opportunity,” she said.
New participants are “welcomed with open arms” to the free event every Wednesday morning from 7.30am at Boardwalk Boats. Paddling equipment is supplied and instruction is provided by Lachlan.
“We will look after you. We will encourage you. You will have fun,” Sharon said.