June 8th, 2012 
Dam That Cancer is a 21-mile, stand-up paddleboarding journey across Lake Austin. Like the fight against cancer, it requires physical and mental endurance and strength. It tests one’s physical and mental limits. It’s a challenge set out with the hope of ending in triumph.
Yet one is not alone on this journey, just like one shouldn’t be alone when coping with cancer. It’s the support of those around that will help one overcome the moments of uncertainty.
Dam That Cancer 2012 (Photo Credit: Amanda Ivarra)
Dam That Cancer is the premier fundraising event of The Flatwater Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing those in the community diagnosed with cancer, as well as their families and loved ones, access to therapy and physical activities to improve their mental health. This includes access to traditional methods of psychological counseling, as well as an integrated approach to wellness via access to yoga, meditation, group exercise and personal training.
Amanda Mendoza and Michigan Herter (Photo Credit: Amanda Ivarra)
This year’s stand-up paddleboarding event was held on June 4, 2012 and included a group of 75 participants. First, participants raised a minimum of $1,500 each in support of The Flatwater Foundation. Then, the participants paddled as a group on Lake Austin to show their support for the fight against cancer, to spread the message that mental health is vital in overcoming cancer and to prove that unity is strength–families and support networks make everything possible.
After nearly 10 hours of stand-up paddleboarding in the Texas heat, the group of paddlers arrived at Hula Hut for a post-paddle celebration. Everyone was welcome to attend the We Paddle, You Party celebration. The celebration included music, food and drink and raffle prizes.
Juliet & Randall Urushima (Photo Credit: Amanda Ivarra)
Proceeds from the paddle and party will provide access to mental health and wellness programs for those affected by cancer who cannot otherwise afford it. The Flatwater Foundation understands the challenges that exist when a cancer diagnosis disrupts a family or tight community. Therefore, it’s their goal to provide mental health services via licensed providers for those that would not otherwise have access.
