It has now been 4 years (August 17, 2020) since I heard the words, “you have Ovarian Cancer” (3C High Grade Serous). These words shook our world, and to this day, it is still difficult knowing I live with this chronic disease that carries with it, such a high risk of recurrence. This is even more personal for me as I carry the BRCA gene which means I am also at a higher risk for breast cancer.

I continue to receive amazing care from Dr. Bouchard and the medical team at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. Only a few months ago, I had a CT Scan before having Heart Surgery for a valve repair (another story for another time!!) and the scan detected two lesions. The Radiology report read “this is the start of a reoccurance”, and I thought “those mischievous monkeys have returned and i have another battle to ensue!!”. A follow-up Scan in June showed one lesion had shrunk (to which Dr. Bouchard said "cancer doesn't shrink unless you are on active treatment") and the other lesion is stable. I have since had a CT Scan last week of August and that has also showed everything is "stable", Praise God. Repeat scan in three months again.

Today, my disease is considered stable, and as I get stronger I will keep battling this chronic disease, keeping the Monkeys at bay.

Thousands of Canadians are currently living with ovarian cancer and one in two of those diagnosed will die within five years. Treatment outcomes have not improved in over 50 years, which is unacceptable. I want to see real change for this disease. (Ovarian Cancer Canada).

The “official” Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope event for Niagara Region takes place on Sunday September 8th in Niagara Falls at Oakes Park (5700 Morrison St). The walk around the track will start at 10:00 am, with an informal Opening Ceremony at 9:30 am. You can join me as I walk with my fellow Teal Sisters and my small Survivor Sisters group.

AND/OR

At 2:00 pm (gathering any time after 1:30) David and I will host our annual walk from our home in Niagara-on-the-Lake. This is the 4th year I will be leading Team “Monkey B Gone”. I hope you will join us. After the walk we will serve light refreshments and celebrate together. Please RSVP as soon as you know.... and wear your Teal!!

Last year my fundraising goal was $4,500. Thanks to your amazing support, we raised over $8,000 together!! With the Walk of Hope we can make a difference. Acknowledging many of you support other worthwhile charities, if we can match this amount in 2024, my Teal Sisters from across Canada, and I will be extremely grateful. 

Every dollar raised goes to support Ovarian Cancer Canada, the only national charity dedicated to overcoming this disease. The next big breakthrough in ovarian cancer is around the corner. (Ovarian Cancer Canada). 

Again, Thank You friends for all your support throughout my journey. Please join my Team Monkey B Gone and I hope to see you on September 8th. Tax receipts will be issued for any donation of $20.00 or more. Please forward this message to anyone you know that may be interested in the Walk of Hope.

Let’s Go Monkey B Gone Team!

Cynthia (Walker) Parks