As a single mother of three, I received the call and heard the devastating words: “You have cancer.” I underwent countless rounds of treatments for breast cancer, beginning the long road to recovery.
Drawing on my lifelong love of the water, I remembered that sailing had always been an important part of maintaining my emotional health and quickly made sailing an integral part of my own cancer recovery. I credit sailing as being a major factor in making it through the darkest, most challenging period of my life.
That experience inspired me to start a non-profit organization in 2014, whose mission was to provide private respite sails free of charge for anyone coping with any type or stage of cancer. The program was an instant success. In its first 5 years, the organization provided private sailing experiences and lasting memories to over 1800 cancer patients and their loved ones. By 2018, Suzanne began to receive calls from folks all over the country asking for advice on how to start a similar program in their part of the country.
In response, in February 2020, Sail Beyond Cancer VT was born. SBC VT is non-profit organization whose mission is to provide life affirming sailing experiences through honoring those being challenged by cancer by harnessing the healing powers of wind, water and sail.
These life-changing experiences are made possible by generous donations from caring corporations, family foundations, Rotary clubs, and individuals. Donations of vessels, equipment, services, time and cash, combined with the dedication of volunteer board members, captains, and crew make it all happen.
We invite you to step aboard, lend a hand, and make a difference!
www.sailbeyondcancer.org