HERON THAMES
Health, Exercise & Recovery Learn to Row with and after Breast Cancer
HERecoveryON Thames
Who Are We?
HERON Thames is the UK’s first rowing club for women recovering from breast cancer. Our core values—Health, Exercise, and Recovery —guide everything we do. Wherever you are on your recovery and fitness journey, we provide a welcoming space to build strength, boost confidence, and connect with yourself and teammates.
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HERON Thames envisions a rowing team for women at any stage of their breast cancer journey who is ready to use exercise as part of their recovery journey. We offer a space to confidently try a new sport guided by trained coaches and reconnect with their physical strength and identity. Set against the vibrant backdrop of the River Thames—alive with river birds, natural beauty (and the occasional seal)—our program helps women regain control of their bodies through the rhythm of rowing. Drawing strength from the river’s flow and the camaraderie of their teammates, we are passionate about empowering women to build confidence through the sport we love.
Why Row Through Recovery?
Our program emphasises improving health and managing treatment side effects through regular exercise and sport-based recovery.
Set against the scenic backdrop of the Thames, we foster a non-judgmental community where women can come together to learn and share our passion for rowing, regaining control of physical well-being and rediscovering or creating new identities. Click “Learn More” for the research and science
The Founders“Hello!”
HERON Thames was founded by Fiona and her daughter Ren, uniting their passion for rowing and dedication to supporting women recovering from breast cancer through sport. Fiona, who continued rowing throughout her own breast cancer treatment and went on to win gold at the World Masters, brings over 35 years of experience as an osteopath, university lecturer, and PhD student researching female athlete recovery and the role of sports narratives. Ren, who rowed competitively in school and holds a Master’s in anthropology and medical ethics, is devoted to creating a welcoming, inclusive space where women can rebuild their strength and confidence through rowing. Together, they are driven by a shared vision of community, resilience, and health.
