On November 3, 2011, the course of my life changed forever, that was the day I was told that I had ovarian cancer. An estimated 2,800 Canadian women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year, an estimated 1,800 die from the disease. The pandemic does not change the fact that ovarian cancer research is significantly underfunded and that more has to be done to develop better treatments. Scientific progress in the field has been agonizingly slow, more than half of women who are diagnosed with ovarian cancer still die within five years.

Like many who have battled the disease, I dream that perhaps one day soon there will be a test that can detect ovarian cancer in its early stages. The majority of women are currently diagnosed after the cancer has spread beyond their reproductive system. In the meantime, funds raised for research in the area of immunotherapy might give renewed hope to some of us—especially the thousands who are already living with ovarian cancer or facing a recurrence.

Just being able to support and honour all of us who have this disease means absolutely everything to me. That’s why, despite the global pandemic, I’m participating once again in the Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope. This year’s virtual walk will be different, but the spirit will remain the same. The event still celebrates the hope I carry with me every day – the hope for a future without this disease.

Please provide your support by giving generously. Together we can make a difference.