In only its second year, Brave the Waves raised an impressive $21,000 for More Than a Cure, a Montreal breast cancer nonprofit dedicated to education, advocacy and patient care.
The student led dragon boat fundraiser took place on July 4, 2026 along the Lachine Canal in Verdun. More than 350 paddlers across 18 teams took part, from national level athletes to first time participants. Close to 600 spectators gathered along the shore to watch the race and support the cause.
The Women’s Health Awareness Movement, known as WHAM, organized the event with the Club Sportif de Bateau Dragon de l’Université de Montréal for the second year in a row. WHAM is a McGill University medical student initiative focused on women’s health education and community outreach.
“For us, Brave the Waves is a chance to bring greater recognition to women’s health and the lived experiences of people affected by breast cancer,” said Allison Engo, Co Director and Co Founder of Brave the Waves and a fourth-year medical student at McGill University’s Montreal campus, Class of 2027. “Our goal is to bring people together, build a close community and make sure everyone has lots of fun.”
Anna Li, also a fourth-year medical student at McGill’s Montreal campus, serves as Co-Director and Co-Founder alongside Engo. She said the enthusiastic response from participants and sponsors surpassed the team’s expectations.
“Every team arrived with a personal reason to take part,” Li said. “To see students, survivors and families together at the canal showed us how much support exists for this cause.”
One of the day’s most heartfelt moments came from TwoAbreast, a dragon boat team composed entirely of breast cancer survivors. The team participated to support others affected by the disease and to show the value of peer support and physical activity after treatment. “We came here as a team because we wanted to show these young people that what they do matters,” said Hélène Bounoua, a breast cancer survivor and TwoAbreast paddler. “Fundraisers matter. Breast cancer awareness matters.”
Spectators greeted the teams with loud cheers as the dragon boats crossed the finish line after several close races. Along the canal, local vendors served food and drinks while student singers and dance groups entertained the crowd. A raffle offered more than $10,000 in donated prizes from over two dozen local companies. The generous contributions added excitement to the day and helped support the event’s fundraising total.
More Than A Cure provides financial assistance and support services for women who face barriers during breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. Funds from this year’s event will help the organization continue its work with patients who face financial hardship and with families affected by breast cancer.
After the strong success of its second edition, organizers hope to expand the event and establish Brave the Waves as an annual Montreal tradition.
For event details or to make a donation, visit bravethewaves.org.