My ovarian cancer story started with experiencing vague symptoms for approximately 2-3 years before my diagnosis which I was told over and over was related to menopause. On March 22, 2023, I was diagnosed with stage 2A high grade serous ovarian cancer, the most aggressive form of the disease. I do not have any genetic markers so was at no higher risk for getting it than anyone else.

As many know, ovarian cancer has only a 30% 5-year survival rate. The frontline treatment options for OC are the same as they were 50 years ago which is unacceptable, but we are going to change that! Even in the last year there has been a huge influx of new drugs and clinical trials because of increased awareness and funding. I recently participated in an interview process that culminated in the hiring of three new gynecologic oncologists in the Okanagan region and one on Vancouver island, so women in those areas will no longer have to travel for surgery as I did. As well, almost 50 support staff will be hired to help with pre and post surgical care.

 

By participating and fundraising for the Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope, I'm helping to fund vital research that will save lives, ensuring educational resources and support programs are available for those who need it, and fueling advocacy efforts because everyone deserves to live life to the fullest.

 

Every dollar raised supports Ovarian Cancer Canada, the only national charity dedicated to overcoming this disease.

 

Please donate to my walk or sign up to join me as a team member on September 8th in Vancouver (I would love to see you!) because there isn’t time to wait. Together, we can improve outcomes for all women.