Sea Dragon Angels
This is a tribute to the team members we've lost. They once paddled beside us, and their spirits still move with every stroke, guiding our blades through the water. We paddle for ourselves — and for those who can no longer paddle.
Donna Benson
Navy veteran and extraordinary sportswoman. Some Donna quotes:
"So what? I can't do it this time, but watch me."
"I keep saying 'thank you' each time I wake up and look out at the sky."
"Life is the start of another day, and another day is the start of life."
"Having a challenge means you're still alive. Don't waste it. Say 'thank you'."
Mary Burger
It was a pleasure knowing Mary for the short time I did. I recently joined her paddling team, Team Survivor San Diego. I only had a few short conversations with her but, did get to enjoy her company one night for dinner. It was a pleasure hearing her talk about trips she had taken in the past and trips she had planned for the future. I thought to myself, now that's who I want to be. Someone looking forward to the next adventure and not worrying about life. I will remember Mary fondly.
Kelly H., 2019
Patti Floren
Patti joined Team Survivor Sea Dragons in 2016. Patti called herself a “metastatic breast cancer thriver”. She chose to fully LIVE with cancer and
loved being part of our team with other female cancer survivors. She surprised herself with her strength when she absorbed the positive energy and supportive camaraderie of our team. She interviewed with a San Diego TV News reporter and said that being part of Team Survivor Sea
Dragons “has helped me reclaim my physical confidence”.
Patti Floren Welcome Fund for new paddlers
Tiffiny Jackson
Tiffiny was an amazing, kind, talented teammate who showed an immense passion for dragon boating, and always gave it all she had to add power to the boat. We received our very first DB medals together, all so excited to be part of an amazing team of genuine ladies.
While chatting with Tiffiny she spoke so excitedly and optimistically about love for life, as well as how much she adored her talented children.
It's always a mystery why the beautiful ones are taken from us so prematurely but strongly believe she came into our lives to serve a greater purpose that we sometimes forget….every day is a gift, live life without fear, and take every opportunity to paddle-on like there's no tomorrow. Rest peacefully our DB sister Tiffiny!
Natalie N., 2024