As some of you already know, I have received a diagnostic of stage 3B of ovarian cancer in January 2020.  It was a total choc.  I have been operated in January 2020, followed by 6 chemotherapy treatments.  I have been lucky enough to the able to take Zejula, a maintenance treatment, in the hope of keeping the cancer at bay.  I have unfortunately faced a recurrence after 18 months. No surgery this time, but I have received the same chemotherapy protocol followed in 2020.  The cancer became refractory to one effective treatment that contains platinum salts which means that I am on ongoing treatment.

In Canada, it is estimated that approximately 3,100 women will be diagnosed this year.  Ovarian cancer is the 5th most current type of cancer in women and the most fatal female cancer.

Ovarian cancer may not cause any signs or symptoms in its early stages.  They often appear as the tumour grows and causes changes in the body.  Other health conditions can cause the same symptoms and causes changes in the body.  Other health conditions can cause the same symptoms as ovarian cancer.  The symptoms include:

• ​abnormal vaginal bleeding
• frequent discharge from the vagina that is clear, white or coloured with blood
• a lump that can be felt in the pelvis or abdomen
• unirary symptoms (urgency or frequency)
• constipation
• feeling full quickly
• pelvic pressure or abdominal pain
• fatigue
• weight loss
• back pain

Furthermore, contrary to other cancer, there is no reliable screening test. This is why this cancer is often diagnosed at a later stage (stages 3 or 4).

Ovarian Cancer Canada champions the health and well-being of women with ovarian cancer and others at risk of this disease while advancing research to save lives.  As the only registered Canadian charity solely dedicated to overcoming ovarian cancer, the organization provides leadership in research, advocacy, and support, so that women live fuller, better and longer lives.

Each year, Ovarian Cancer Canada organizes fundraising activity all over the country "Walk of Hope."  This year this activity will take place Sunday, September 10th.  As this cause is bigger than me, I have decided to walk again this year in order to, very humbly, help research and to help make known this neglected cancer.

Thank you for your attention and support!