Heartfelt Brushstrokes: Pink Dragon Ladies dedicate memorial wall to fallen members
Watch Above: Adding a name to the wall
TAMPA, Fla. (BLOOM) – In Tampa, there’s a seawall that’s more than just a barrier against the waves; it’s a canvas of love and memory, thanks to the Pink Dragon Ladies. This dragon boat team has turned a stretch of Bayshore into a heartfelt gallery, painting the names of teammates they’ve lost but never forgotten.
Between the Platt Street Bridge and the Jose Gaspar’s berth, they’ve created something truly special, right across from Tampa General Hospital.
In 2008, the tradition started with a profound moment, marking the wall with the name of Carol Lee Banks, a team member who fought breast cancer bravely. That day, as her name was added, the team felt a mix of sorrow and deep connection, a tradition that has since grown to include more beloved names, each accompanied by heartfelt gatherings of friends and family, celebrating lives well-lived.
This year, from the end of February into early March, the ladies in pink were at it again, dedicating four days to bring new names to the memorial. It’s a group effort, with about 20 team members and the families of those remembered coming together, brushes in hand, hearts full of memories.
“Each name we paint is a story, a life we cherished,” shares Kathleen Cabble, a dedicated member of the Pink Ladies, emphasizing the deep emotional bonds and the shared moments of joy and sorrow.
Dressed in their team gear, these women create a striking scene against the waterside, their boats aligned in a poignant tribute as they face the seawall, their canvas. The ceremonies have seen memorable moments, like releasing white doves, symbolizing peace and the lasting spirit of their departed friends. It’s a powerful blend of personal remembrance and communal support, mirrored in the water’s reflective calm.
The local community, including leaders like former Mayor Pam Iorio, has embraced this tribute, ensuring the ladies can continue this beautiful tradition. Iorio’s support highlights how much this wall means, not just to the team, but to the whole Tampa community, acknowledging the space as an important local landmark.
The Pink Dragon Ladies embody a fierce spirit, whether they’re racing in their dragon boat or wielding paintbrushes in honor of their teammates. Their memorial wall is a poignant testament to the love and resilience that defines them, a painted narrative of the lives they celebrate.
As evening falls over Bayshore, the painted names catch the last light of day, and the Pink Ladies take to the water, their presence a tribute to the vibrant souls remembered on the wall. In those moments, the waters off Tampa don’t just reflect the setting sun; they echo with the love, laughter, and unity of a community forever connected by the bonds of friendship and remembrance.
Getting to Know the Pink Dragon Ladies
Meet the Pink Dragon Ladies, Tampa Bay’s own squad of inspiration on the water. They’re not just any dragon boat team; they’re a tight-knit group of female cancer survivors who paddle with purpose. Their mission? To stir up a wave of health, activity, and empowerment for women who’ve faced down cancer.
They take a page from Maya Angelou, living out her words: “I can be changed by what happens to me, but I refuse to be reduced by it.” That’s their rallying cry, whether they’re powering through the water or cheering each other on through life’s challenges. This team is all about celebrating the strength and spirit every woman has, especially when the going gets tough.
Inclusivity is their middle name. They’re committed to welcoming everyone, no matter their background, because they know that every person brings something special to the boat. They’re a microcosm of society, united on the water, demonstrating that strength comes in many forms, and unity is their superpower.
Being part of the Pink Dragon Ladies is like joining a family where laughter, support, and high fives are plentiful. They honor their journeys, remember those they’ve lost, and paddle fiercely with hope and joy in their hearts. It’s more than just a sport for them; it’s a way to reclaim their vitality and connect with others who get it, no explanations required.
A Tribute Written on the Waters
The memorial wall that the Pink Dragon Ladies maintain is more than just a painted surface; it’s a parchment of honor, each name a testament to a life lived with courage and a spirit unbroken. This wall stands on Tampa’s Bayshore, a silent yet eloquent witness to the strength and resilience of women who faced cancer with unwavering bravery.
Cheri Ann Peterson
Amanda Carter
Carol Lee Banks
Mary Ann Musial
Linda Fessell
Patricia Eaton
Zienia Cabrera
Marianne Semko
Donna Jubert-Peays
Diane Brown
Verna Snyder
Valerie Hinman
Want to dive deeper into their story or maybe even grab a paddle yourself? Check them out at www.pinkdragonladies.org and see what they’re all about.
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