At Dockwa, we’ve always believed in the power of time on the water... how a few hours at sea can bring peace, perspective, and connection. Few organizations embody that truth more beautifully than Sail Beyond Cancer USA, a nonprofit dedicated to honoring those impacted by cancer through the healing experience of sailing. Founded in Burlington, Vermont, and now spanning multiple coastal chapters, the organization brings patients, caregivers, and loved ones together for what they call “mission sails” - moments to breathe, reflect, and simply feel the magic of the wind.
Each sail is led by trained volunteer captains and crew who create a safe, uplifting environment aboard vessels donated or operated through Sail Beyond Cancer’s hybrid program. In this story, meet Kathi, and let her impact inspire you to make yours.
By Lynn Fitzpatrick - Sail Beyond Cancer
Sail Beyond Cancer USA has taken over 1,200 cancer patients and 6,000 guests for three-hours sails since 2020. Making sure all guests are comfortable and safe is paramount. Beyond that, we want the entire experience to bring relief, joy, and peace to our guests. To paraphrase Maya Angelou, “People will forget what you said and what you did, but they will never forget how you made them feel.” As Sail Beyond Cancer, USA expands it’s drawing on the experiences and exemplary example set by its Ambassador Extraordinaire, Kathi.
Kathi disarms everyone with her smile immediately. Within minutes of arriving at Newport’s in-store event with our partner Helly Hansen, she had greeted all of the Sail Beyond Cancer volunteers and the Helly Hansen staff; learned their names and something about them; surveyed the store to learn were the ladies’, men’s, and winter gear were displayed; and helped to finish setting up the Sail Beyond Cancer display. By the time the day was over she knew everyone’s story, made everyone feel important, and left a warm and lasting impression. It’s no wonder she’s on loan to all chapters, especially Sail Beyond Cancer Newport, the newest chapter, to train the organization’s ambassadors.
Kathi recalls her first interaction with Sail Beyond Cancer in 2020. She was one of five friends invited on a mission sail. She, like many of Sail Beyond Cancer’s guests, was not a sailor but wanted to support her friend. She never expected to be rewarded by feeling blessed and supported by the experience herself. ”Seeing firsthand that cancer was not in control for those three hours led me to believe that I could play a role in helping others receive the same joy I experienced that day. I felt as if I was drawn to Sail Beyond Cancer and I volunteered to be an ambassador.”
Sail Beyond Cancer’s ambassadors don’t have to know how to sail, but in some ways they are the most important crew members. The ambassador interacts with all the guests, puts them at ease, and takes photos throughout the trip. Kathi, one of thirteen daughters, mother of six, and an educator has a natural ability to connect with people.
Not one to take anything for granted, she considers it an honor and a privilege to serve others through her work with Sail Beyond Cancer. She has three pieces of advice for all ambassadors. “Really connect with people right at the dock. Be welcoming and provide them comfort and support. Be sure to capture meaningful photos and videos throughout their time with us. The photos and footage will provide long lasting memories that will bring them and their guests/caregivers joy.”
If you think you have the natural ability to connect with people, volunteer with Sail Beyond Cancer and help us harness the healing power of wind, water, and sail to bring respite to cancer patients and their loved ones, one sail at a time.
Nominate. Donate. Volunteer.
Together, we are making a difference—One Sail at a Time®
Learn More at SailBeyondCancer.org