Beyond survival, an ancient Chinese sport catapults an unlikely crew of cancer survivors into a new way of being. Redefining the word 'sick' and re-framing the meaning of their diagnosis, these fractured individuals transform into a single force of power and beauty. Wrapped in a sport that is a feast for the senses, this film of nail-biting competition and intimate revelations challenges traditional medical thinking; revealing a path to wellness that holds hope for all survivors. Awaken the Dragon is a moving and inspiring ride that leaves viewers wondering if they too have the power to awaken the dragon within.—Liz Oakley
Beyond survival, an ancient Chinese sport catapults an unlikely crew of cancer survivors into a new way of being. Redefining the word 'sick' and re-framing the meaning of their diagnosis, these fractured individuals transform into a single force of power and beauty. Wrapped in a sport that is a feast for the senses, this film of nail-biting competition and intimate revelations challenges traditional medical thinking; revealing a path to wellness that holds hope for all survivors. A moving and inspiring ride that leaves viewers wondering if they too have the power to awaken the dragon within.This year alone, over 1 million Americans will hear the words you have cancer. They will join the ranks of 12 million who have suffered through or are living with the disease. But challenges remain beyond mere survival. Awaken the Dragon, a new film by Liz Oakley, explores the unique post-cancer experience that leads a group of men and women to a life they never thought possible. Against the backdrop of the life of a fledgling dragon boat team, the film profiles individual stories of strength, courage and survival. Engaged in the unfolding fates, viewers follow the novice paddlers of Dragon Boat Charleston through three years of intense training and competition, culminating at the national championships. Their journey produces changes so striking it inspires researchers and a National Cancer Institute study. Awaken the Dragon is a story beyond survival. . a story of reclaiming life. . a story of awakening the dragon within.
