Norm Husband

A brief summary, Vats exploratory, chemo, sternotomy/thymectomy, radiotherapy and Cancer free since Oct 2022. And, yes, I do have phrenic nerve damage, a raised right diaphragm and very much out of puff on exertion.

I was offered a plication of my diaphragm in April 2024. After receiving the operation, my initial thoughts were that the results were not worth the extra risks involved with a fairly major surgery. At this point I could walk 8-10 miles but still was struggling with any exertion.

I had a chance meeting in August with a group of dragon boat racers at a RNLI event in Christchurch, the Bourne Water Dragons. I didn't need much encouragement to sign up for the 3 trials after learning all the members are cancer survivors. I left the encounter absolutely buzzing with excitement and really looking forward to my first paddle 4 days later.

However, I started to doubt what I could do and was so worried I might struggle after 10 strokes. The guys I met had assured me there are all levels of fitness; and if I was tired, I just take a break.

I was really dreading the day of my first trial but luckily, for my benefit alone, it was cancelled due to high winds. I was really annoyed at myself that I had doubts, especially after being told not to worry about what I could do.

Sunday came around and I was made to feel so welcome by the Bourne Water Dragons. I paddled with only a few breaks for about an hour. I signed up immediately, absolutely amazed at what I could do. It has helped me progress tremendously.

Now 5 sessions later our team was part of a regatta at Henley and we completed the 7km course in under 50 minutes. Yes, we were last but we all bloody loved it - every single minute with such camaraderie with my team mates.

It has helped me push a bit further to get fitter and my fitness improvement has helped some other friends that I know that have cancer, realise just what can be done. It has also made my partner finally realise she can go away with her girlfriends for a long weekend.

Joining this motley crew of the Bourne Water Dragons is the best thing to happen to me for several years.

Now, I would definitely say the plication op was worthwhile - I have just been very fortunate to find such an amazing bunch of team mates in the process.

Stay fit, healthy and positive.👍