Meet (some of) the Team

We have an ALL-VOLUNTEER Board of Directors
Our Officers (President, Vice President, Secretary and Treasurer) are ALL Breast Cancer Survivors.

Terry Coleman, President
This is my 9th season with the Machestic Dragons. I believe that everything happens for a reason. I was diagnosed in 2000, and have learned to slow down (just a little) and enjoy what life has to offer. Since joining the Machestic Dragons in 2002, I have raced in NJ, NY, PA, RI, CT, VT, and Montreal Canada; as well as in three international races (Berlin Germany, Caloundra Australia, and Peterborough Ontario) with my new "BrEaST" friends on the best team ever!!

Annie Carricato, Vice President
When it was suggested by a Machestic team member two years ago to join the survivor's team I was desperate to find a way get my endorphins pumping feeling depleted of energy after radiation treatment. Once in the dragon boat I was changed for the better, forever. At 66 I find myself physically fit because of this exhilarating activity. I am a spiritual seeker; Healing Touch practitioner and Hypnotherapist, and I am on staff at Lourdes Integrative Wellness Center in Columbus, NJ. Married 40 years to James, I am blessed to have all of our four adult children living in the northeast and am called Nona be my five grandchildren. The world moves so quickly I am so grateful that for today we can share love with each other face to face. Most doubly grateful for my new found sister; we may see things differently but when we are in the same boat the synchronization of our energy keeps us moving forward in all ways.

Arietta Wismer, Secretary
Was first diagnosed with breast cancer on September 11, 2001. A memorable day for me for more than one reason. After treatment, and a few surgeries, am doing well now. I love to be involved in art activities, presently taking classes in oil and acrylic painting, drawing, graphic design. Have been involved in the Machestic Dragons Dragon Boat Team since 2006 and have participated in the races here in the northeastern USA, Canada, and Australia. The friendships I have made through the team have helped me get through the uncertainty of diagnosis and treatment. The physical exercise has been wonderful for keeping the old body in shape. Don't know what I would do without knowing that we will be getting together and back on the water each spring. READ FULL BIO

Carol Watchler, Insurance/Treasurer
I am in my sixth year of paddling with the Machestic Dragons team. I have served on the Machestic Dragons Board of Directors as treasurer and been an active organizer with our Paddle for Pink Festival for the past two seasons. Getting a breast cancer diagnosis just a few months after leaving high school teaching in 2003 was an unwelcome way to greet retirement, but the inspiring friends as well as support and opportunity to teach others which I have discovered in the breast cancer community never cease to amaze me. READ FULL BIO