Every Saturday, La Vagabunda hosts an event known as the “Pink Brunch”. It is so named in honor of the cause it supports, breast cancer treatment and awareness. A portion of the proceeds from every “Pink Brunch” goes to support breast cancer charities and awareness projects in the region. This has become a very popular community event as not only does the restaurant offer fantastic brunch with live music but they also support a cause that has affected so many lives.
One of the participating organizations is the Dragon Boat Club in Puerto Aventuras. The connection between the Dragon Boat club and breast cancer awareness may not seem obvious until you discover that Dragon Boat team, Samchak Kukulcan, is comprised of local breast cancer survivors! Not only that, Rosa Mexicano, a four-day event to support breast cancer survivors was conceived by the club and inaugurated this year.
In February, the Puerto Aventuras Dragon Boat Club hosted Rosa Mexicano, an international event to celebrate women who have survived breast cancer and to remember those who have lost the battle against this devastating disease. Breast cancer survivors and Dragon Boat racers from the United States and Canada joined their Mexican sisters in Puerto Aventuras to share a powerful message with society offering a message of hope to women battling cancer and demonstrating that sports can be a powerful tool for moving forward, mentally and physically.
Over four days, these women shared their experiences, spent time together, and hosted conferences and workshops on various topics, including oncology, psychology, physiotherapy, nutrition, and dragon boating. It was a time for participants to receive a boost of strength and encouragement to continue enjoying life to the fullest. Notably, the event featured the distinguished Dr. Donald McKenzie, an expert in oncology and sports medicine.
The 1st edition of this inspiring event concluded with exciting Dragon Boat races featuring breast cancer survivors from Mexico (Samchak Kukulcan), the United States (Linked In Pink), and Canada (Busting Out). The festival also included a Mayan ceremony, a ceremony of light, and of course, a closing celebration that recharged everyone with energy, as the strength emanating from these brave women filled the place with joy and positive vibes.
Headed up by Francois Blais, President and Founder of the Puerto Aventuras Dragon Boat Club, this inspiring event will be held annually. Funds raised by events such as La Vagabund’s “Pink Brunch” will help make that happen.
