Over the past decade there have been an increasing number of high profile events where, in response to the experience of breast cancer, women take on adventure activities to raise awareness and/or funds for breast cancer.   These activities range from mountain climb challenges to Dragon Boat racing and offer physical and psychological challenges within a social support group setting.  This study aims to investigate this phenomenon, entitled Changing Gears, a 1200 kilometre Harley Davidson motorcycle ride from Sydney to Noosa. 

The ride was undertaken by 22 young women who have survived breast cancer, ranging in age from 38 to 56 years.  Analysis of qualitative data suggests that Changing Gears represents a challenging context within which peer support acts as a catalyst for benefit finding.  When peer support expectations were met, women reported inner peace, accomplishment, self learning, perspective shift and feeling supported.

Adventure events such as this ride are increasing worldwide.  This study demonstrates ways in which these activities can be helpful for breast cancer survivors. It is suggested that such events can be conceptualised as a psychosocial support intervention where women seek to achieve a behavioural goal that involves emotional and physical challenges in an environment of group peer support, open disclosure and discussion of their cancer experience.

Staff Involved:   Suzanne Steginga, Danielle Penn, Jeff Dunn.

Collaborators:  Meredith Campbell (Amazon Heart), Megan Dwyer (Amazon Heart).

Contact: Suzanne Steginga