Welcome back to our seventeenth consecutive year of Kayaking for Cancer!

I was asked for the first time this year to write why I paddle. I think before I may have answered, "because my dad does it...", but I realize now that, that's not why. I paddle for the 4 year old me who lost her grandfather, her idol, her smile on a bad day, her Papa Ron. I paddle for my Nana, my rock, my smile and part of my heart, who fought through 2 battles with cancer and survived, but day to day lives with 1 kidney. I paddle for my cousin Cindy Doucet, who is recovering from cancer right now. I paddle for my Aunt Claire and my Aunt Dorothy, kayaking to show them that I care. I paddle for mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, friends and loved ones, who are affected by this terrible disease and have to leave their family and friends before they're ready. I paddle because that quarter that was put in the donation bucket could be a life changer to many. I paddle because I want to be a part of something that motivates, helps and gives hope to those who feel hope is lost. I paddle for the day when cancer is no more and the disease that once affected most, affects few. I paddle for not only my family, but the thousands of others.

My dad started it with his friends 17 years ago. I plan to kick this disease in the butt with mine!

Dannika Dionne, Age 14