Madison women fighting back by taking on new challenges and living life to the fullest

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and by that standard, I suppose a video is worth hundreds of thousands. The trouble is, a picture by itself doesn't tell you what the main story behind the picture really is. That's where words usually come in. Or don't.

This is one of those times that the words failed the picture. When I posted this video the other day, I thought the story was about stand up paddleboarding. And I thought the scene was beautiful, and slightly surreal. It's all of those, but there's a more important -- and more inspiring -- story here. This isn't so much an update about the video as a whole new story.

One thing that did strike me about these resolute paddleboarders at the time was that they seemed unusually focused and supportive as a group. Now I know why. (Thanks to Tyler Leeper, the owner of Wingra Boats for filling me in.)

These women are survivors. They're members of Team Survivor Madison, the local affiliate of the national organization that provides group exercise and support programs for women with a present or past diagnosis of cancer. Women of all ages and fitness levels and in all stages of cancer treatment and recovery are welcome. Team Survivor is open to women who have been diagnosed with any type of cancer.

"Exorcise your chemotherapy demons with exercise -- women who exercise during their cancer experience note less fatigue. This benefit is in addition to the other benefits of exercise; less depression, increased sense of well-being and weight loss when done in conjunction with a healthy diet." -- Dr. Cynthia Forsthoff, Oncologist

These women are facing the challenges in their lives with bravery and determination. Their images gliding across the water are true profiles in courage.

Stand up paddleboarding suddenly goes viral on Madison's Lake Wingra

This afternoon the whole lake seemed filled with women standing on boards and gliding across the water. It was surreal and strangly lyrical at the same time.

The women were newbies taking lessons. A stiff breeze was blowing and kicking up some chop on the water -- a pretty good indication of how stable this new form of water transportation actually is. The equipment rental and lessons were provided by Paddleboard Specialists, who partner on Lake Wingra with Wingra Boats. Paddle on, be your own gondolier! (And also help the polar bears at Henry Vilas Zoo.)