Archives for September 2025

Uncategorized

We’re closing this series with a powerful collection of survivor voices—each one a testament to strength, resilience, and hope.

Survivors were invited to finish this sentence: “I’m not just a survivor, I’m a ________.”

Their words bring the conversation full circle, celebrating life beyond cancer and the many ways survivorship can be defined.

Advocate

Human

A person who cares. No one knows what it is like to go through this better than someone going through it.

New person

A person who cares. No one knows what it is like to go through this better than someone going through it.

Diva

Strong woman trying to make great memories with my family. Take one milestone at a time and achieve it!!!

I’m a mom. I’m a career woman. I’m just another human trying to live life for the first time, just like everyone else.

Warrior!

Lover of life

Fighter. Warrior. I’m alive.

Testimony to His greatness

Wife, Mom, Daughter….I am so many things, but those are the most important to me.

Cancer fighter

Badass

Thriver!

Fighter

Warrior!

Thriver and living my best life!

I’m not just a survivor, I’m a (coming up blank here. I’m lots of things, but it’s hard to put in one sentence). All our life experiences shape us into the person we are today. Cancer has definitely shaped me as well, but I would say it’s mostly shaped me in positive ways. I can be thankful for my cancer because I survived it. I’m not sure I’d be so thankful if I were still fighting it or if I thought it was terminal. It’s been over 6 years since diagnosis, and I am thankful I went through it so I can have more zest for life and appreciation for living. I was excited to turn 40, because not everyone gets to that milestone! Now I’m coming up on 45 🙂

Woman who cares.

Bebe to three precious humans (soon to be four!)

I’m not just a survivor, I’m proof that God’s not finished.

Living testimony and a fighter until the end.

Uncategorized

This week, we share another round of powerful testimonies. These reflections remind us that listening to our bodies is crucial, and that speaking up—no matter how small the symptoms seem—can make all the difference. Survivors also answered two new questions: “What advice would you give to someone newly diagnosed?” and “What’s something beautiful that’s come from your diagnosis?” Their words offer both wisdom and hope, shedding light on the courage it takes to face gynecologic cancer and the strength that can grow even in difficult seasons.

THIS WEEK, WE SHARE ANOTHER ROUND OF POWERFUL TESTIMONIES. THESE REFLECTIONS REMIND US THAT LISTENING TO OUR BODIES IS CRUCIAL, AND THAT SPEAKING UP—NO MATTER HOW SMALL THE SYMPTOMS SEEM—CAN MAKE ALL THE DIFFERENCE.

What advice would you give to someone newly diagnosed?

Stay off the internet, no Web MD because it’s always gonna look different for each person. Don’t scare yourself.

Stay positive. Attitude is everything. Ask questions. Advocate for yourself.

Learn as much as you can

If you don’t know where to go or who to see, go to a university teaching hospital or one that has an outstanding reputation for treating gynecological cancers. If you don’t know who to go to, go to the head of the gynecology department.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help, have a close bond with your doctors, and make them aware of any concerns. Never hesitate to ask questions.

Breathe. Make sure you have a good medical team.

Know that even if you are in the late stage, you can win this war!!!

Write down all the questions. Keep a journal. “Bother” your providers with all the questions. Accept help. Don’t be scared to say what you want. I was scared to say, Don’t bring me meals – send me food delivery gift cards because the kids are unique with their preferences in food. When I started saying things that I actually wanted and needed, people knew how to help me. I learned that people just don’t know how to help sometimes because they are also overwhelmed with the emotion of something being “wrong” with the person they care about.

Try not to stress. I know that is a hard thing. But I believe that staying calm is better for all of us. Let people help you and take care of you; it helps them to feel like they are contributing to your fight. Once I was diagnosed, I rarely drove anywhere; I was driven to all appointments, treatments, etc. I had friends who knew my chemo schedule and would bring lunch to me at the cancer center. Or they would bring dinner to my house on the days of my treatments. Accept gifts. Again, this helps those who care about you feel as if they are helping in your fight. And always carry an extra t-shirt to chemo, you never know when you will throw up.

Advocate for yourself, use a gyn onc, do what works for you. Rest

Don’t be afraid to ask for help (I’m still learning this myself). Use your support system (if you don’t have one, we Teal ladies would love to welcome you and be your support!!). Rest, take it easy. Oh, and EAT. Even if it’s something small like crackers, anything will help you heal and get a little bit of energy in you. Stay hydrated!!

Stay off the internet and WebMD! Too much scary information out there. Talk to your Oncologist and Surgeon, and keep a notebook of questions. And record all your appointments to listen back when you get home.

Talk to people. Try to find humor in a very disturbing reality. Cry often. Get the angst out of your body in any way that works for you. Ask a million questions. Take lots of deep breaths. Write. Cry again. Rest. Let people love you.

To take things a day at a time. I used to be someone who liked to control things. But this is something that can’t be controlled. Lean in to what your doctor says, ask questions, read up, and do what you feel right doing. If not, find a doctor you trust. Try to continue to live your life. Eat whole foods, get sleep, and regular exercise like walking. Let people be there for you if they offer. Cancer is a chronic disease that needs to be managed. There will be highs and lows.

It’s overwhelmingly hard, and there are days that you will want to give up, just remember that there is an ending to one of the hardest journeys you will ever have to go through.

Clean up your diet! Limit or eliminate all processed foods. Doctors will not tell you this, and the food in hospital cafeterias is shameful. Our bodies need whole, nutritious foods in order to heal. Also, eliminating environmental toxins (cleaning products, beauty products – all full of harmful chemicals) really can make a difference. Have a positive mindset – healing is possible, but you have to stay positive and believe.

Fight it head-on! No panicking! You can do it. You will be very surprised at what you can get through 😘

Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. It’s okay to cry, get mad. But don’t let it consume you. Live one day at a time.

Never give up! Try to stay as positive as you possibly can! Accept help with grace.

Don’t lose hope. We can do hard things. You will get through this. All the treatments are doable…not very fun, but you can do it. The hair loss is just a side effect; it will come back. Make the most of the days you feel good. Do the things that make you feel like you. Get outside and walk.

Fight like it’s your last fight. Educate yourself. Talk to others and connect to the Ovarian Cancer community. Don’t let any doctor tell you that you’re not feeling what your body is feeling. Getting an early diagnosis WILL SAVE YOUR LIFE.

Breathe. Take someone with you to your appointments who can take notes for you. Press for as much information from your treatment team as possible. Know your options. Get a second opinion. Keep moving as much as you can, especially during treatment. Connect with other gynecological cancer survivors. Try not to Google…you are not a statistic. Let the people who love you help you. Remember that you are not alone. And know that people do survive this crap.

I would tell them, take a deep breath, lean into your faith, and remember you’re stronger than you feel. Learn everything you can, ask every question, and use wisdom in all things related to treatments and outcomes. Many will have opinions, but find an oncologist you trust who will fight with you. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, and don’t let cancer run your life; it already steals so much. Keep living and loving, because there is joy even in the pain, and God still gives beauty for ashes.

You have to let yourself go to those deep, dark places because it is cathartic. However, you can’t LIVE there. Find your joy in every day. It may only be that hot cup of coffee in the morning, but it is there to be found.

Find a support group of women who have the same or a very similar diagnosis, either in person or online. You can benefit from their stories and their support as they know what it is like to be in your shoes.

“Never give up, no matter how hard things are looking for you. While there is life, there is hope. Never let cancer define who you are or take control of your mind. It’s always good to cry, and don’t let others (those who have not experienced cancer) minimize your feelings. You don’t have to go through this alone; there’s plenty of support out there.”

What’s something beautiful that’s come from your diagnosis?

Community

Connecting with other women and meeting new ones who are fighting as well. The lifting up of other women and being lifted up by them is extraordinary.

It has given me a purpose in life – To give hope and encouragement to my fellow ovarian sisters.

The bond between others with a similar diagnosis.

I have started my life over, leaving an emotionally abusive relationship, and found an incredibly supportive spouse.

Treasure the days, the moments, and make memories!!!

Appreciating things every day. Appreciating breathing the air outside.

I am now closer to God. And the bond with my family and friends is a lot stronger. I was always one of those “I can do it myself” women. Now, I know that I don’t have to do it by myself; I have learned to ask for help and let others contribute.

I’ve made some wonderful friends and learned to play mahjong with a group of survivors.

I don’t know if you would consider this beautiful, but a NEW ME. I’m a different person than I was before. I’m still trying to figure out who that is and what my new normal is. Even though I don’t like change, the biggest change is me.

My increased faith in Jesus Christ

My relationship with God has grown….I now KNOW that He has his hand in everything if I let it….

“I have made great friendships with a couple of women that I met at cancer support groups. We encourage each other. I appreciate life so much more. I love being outside, my family, friends, etc., so many blessings. I am deepening my relationship with God. I desire to know Him more and beg for help in my time of trouble.”

My family and I are much closer than we were before my diagnosis.

Two of my daughters are in nursing school, and I think seeing what I have gone through may have played a part in that. My extended family has heard me give God the glory, and I have developed a closer relationship with a distant cousin.

Appreciate your loved ones and get to share stories with other survivors.

A better appreciation for those struggling with cancer and what they are going through.

My opportunities to educate others about OC and to advocate for an accurate early screener test.

“Cancer survivors have a unique perspective on life that others aren’t necessarily given. We know to be grateful and thankful. Each day is not guaranteed. Also, I have better empathy and compassion for my patients who are also undergoing surgery and chemotherapy.”

The best years of my life will always be joining the OCRA. To be able to share and listen is one of the greatest gifts I have experienced. So many of my sisters are gone. I wish I had known more and given more to save them. I will continue to advocate until my last hot flash.

I have a much stronger faith in God and have learned not to rely on myself alone. I appreciate the moments, work less, and spend more time with those I love. I am grateful. I appreciate the little things.

Something beautiful that’s come from my diagnosis is realizing that, even though my body has grown weaker, I’ve become stronger in the ways that matter most. I’m more in tune with my body, knowing what it needs and honoring those needs. I no longer waste energy on the small things. In the end, what matters is how well you love and encourage others, because sometimes people will watch your journey and be inspired in ways you may never know.

I have made incredible friends from all over the world. The teal sisterhood is an amazing community. The support of friends has meant the world to me.

Getting to know my “Teal Sisters” and learning their stories. It gives me hope that I can not only make it through my chemotherapy treatments, but also hope for remission with no recurrence.

A reminder that I am loved and that I have support from many people; reassurance that God gave me the best and caring husband and family; and knowing that God is always with me because He keeps me going. It’s also beautiful to be a testimony of God’s grace.

“Is there a part of your story that you’re still learning how to tell?”

I’m pretty open about it; it’s been 19 years. I can’t say it was always the case, but I used to hate my horizontal scar, and I bought one-piece bathing suits because of it at first.

I haven’t told many people about what I’ve been going through. I don’t want a slew of people who don’t normally keep in contact to feel sorry for me or reach out only because they’ve heard I had cancer. I never want a pity party.

One of my high school classmates and choir mates in Illinois was going through the same symptoms as I was at the same time. We were diagnosed and had surgery at the same time. Lynn Johnson Holden passed away two years later in 2012, at the age of 45. She was always the life of the party, and I was super shy. I have flipped my personality around to find that joy in the world that she had. Still feel survivor’s guilt that she is gone, and I am here.

Not really, I’m an open book.

Saying the word Cancer is still hard for me. Even the reality of what happened to me is sometimes difficult to grasp. Having to continue to be seen by doctors and being OK with that is hard. I now have white coat syndrome, where my BP gets high when I go to any doctor.

No. I am pretty comfortable telling my story. I hope that my story can help other women who are fighting this beast.

How it will end. I think about this a lot.

Not sure. Maybe processing the whole thing. I don’t think I ever fully processed having cancer. I just went with the flow and did/do what I needed to do to survive another day.

I try not to think about it. I’m so grateful to still be here with my family. ♡

My experience with this roller coaster ride that I was on, trying to explain all the emotions that were and are still going on.

Absolutely. People who have not been through cancer cannot fathom the effect it has. Some people think I’m silly for not eating certain things, but I know that there’s a purpose in supporting my body in what it needs. I still have many chapters left to discover for myself!

Sometimes I struggle to find the words to explain the worry of having a recurrence.

I’m pretty much an open book.

Yes. I have evolved over the past years. I now know that speaking out, telling my story, and realizing that every ache and pain, every search for a doctor to help me, is related to my ovarian cancer. Having them listen while I relay my concerns gets old after a while, but I am motivated to live what time I have as best I can with quality.

I still have a difficult time sharing the fear and anger I experienced. When the bombshell of the diagnosis ripped my life apart, I struggled to get a handle on it… to move forward. I refused to tell people and did not want anyone outside of my inner circle to know I was sick. I was afraid to die and miss out on my children’s weddings and grandchildren… my future. It took a long time for me to regain my footing, deal with the cancer, and live my life.

I’m still learning how to tell the part of my story about surviving when so many women I met along the way didn’t. Survivor’s guilt is real, and for a long time, it kept me quiet. But I know my voice matters, not just to warn others and push for earlier detection, but to help drive research so that my daughter and granddaughter will never have to face this disease.

I will continue to write my story every day. I stopped working last year. So far, that has been the hardest part for me. I am still trying to figure out what my new normal is.

It is still challenging for me to allow people who don’t know me well to know how serious ovarian cancer is. I tend to want to minimize my experience, and at the same time, I know how frightening it is.

I am only about 5 months out from my diagnosis. I am still learning that I am a survivor, even though I am still in chemotherapy and learning about my genetic link (BRCA2 gene).

“What does survivorship mean to you today?”

Advocacy

It means I can still fight. It means I can help others who are on the same journey. It means I can still live a life even though it wasn’t the one I planned on.

They say you are a survivor from the day you are diagnosed.

I am thankful for the people who helped me through this journey.

I am 75 years old, and life has been good. Something good comes out of every journey, no matter how difficult it may be. Maybe in some way, I can be a light to others who may be facing the same journey

Taking a second chance and running with it.

Family, my husband, my children, my grandchildren… watching them grow and thrive!!!

Being able to do the hard things. It’s hard to even say that I’m a survivor because you live this every day. You fear the slightest feeling of how you felt before. But it also means love. It means that I have amazing people around me.

Another chance. A chance to be a better person. A chance to be more compassionate.

Living my life, but resting when needed

Another chance at life. Being alive. Being able to spend more time with family!

Being a survivor to me means not dying from my illness. Living longer than what the statistics say.

Everything. EVERY. THING. How do I even begin to put that into words?

That I can keep on living even if the cancer is just kept at bay. It means thriving despite it being there.

I know that it means something different for everyone, but my experience is that even though I am cancer-free, my new chapter or new journey is just starting, trying to get back to “normal” after cancer.

Being able to see my grandchildren grow. Being here to support all my children in their lives as they reach adulthood and beyond.

I should appreciate living every day. I am still here

Living each day to the fullest, loving people, and trusting God.

I am NED and thriving and FINALLY enjoying my retirement after 33 years in education.

Living my best life and being the healthiest version of me that I have the willpower to be.

I did it, I survived. It is like being tossed in the ocean, not knowing how to swim, and landing up on the beach by the grace of God.

Survivorship means spreading awareness of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer. It means being a voice for all the women who no longer have a voice. It means being available and present for other ovarian cancer survivors who may need support or just someone to listen… who understands.

Survivorship to me means more than just living; it’s living fully, with purpose and gratitude. Facing cancer hasn’t diminished my life; it’s enhanced it in ways you can’t understand unless you’ve walked this closely with mortality. The truth is, something is always trying to take us out; the only difference is, medically, I know what’s trying to kill me right now. You don’t have to be afraid of cancer. It’s not always a death sentence, and it doesn’t have to steal your joy or your purpose.

Survivorship means living and doing as much as I can.

Gratitude! Even though I don’t have much family, I’ve never been without the support I needed.

Survivorship is not giving up, not letting hardships control your life or define you. Survivorship is fighting the battle until the end, no matter the outcome. Survivorship is showing your best in the worst times. Survivorship is having a scar in your body, losing your hair, doing chemo, dealing with side effects, etc. Survivorship is dealing with uncertainty and the unknown.

In our first post, survivors began sharing how they recognized the earliest signs that something wasn’t right. Their words carried weight and honesty. This week, we continue that conversation, highlighting more perspectives so each story has room to be heard.

How has your life changed since your diagnosis—physically, emotionally, or spiritually?

“I try not to take the days for granted or the years. I’ve known so many women who have gone too soon from this.

“I am physically exhausted as I’ve been in some form of treatment for nearly 4 years. I get Taxol and Avastin every other week now, after having had it three weeks on and one off for the first 5 months. I was once an active person, and now I can’t do the things I used to. Emotionally – It’s up and down. Been a roller coaster ride. After each scan or blood test, I am either relieved or concerned. Spiritually, I try to remain focused on hope.”

“Well, I’ve had major surgery!”

“I am a 38-year survivor of IIIc ovarian cancer. For the past 26 years, my mission has been to give HOPE to others going through what I have experienced. I had 2 big surgeries and 2 1/2 years of chemotherapy. I was 41 years old at diagnosis, and I am now 80, and I feel great 😊.”

“I was already a spiritual person. I think what changed with me was emotionally. I don’t dwell on the small things and just accept people as they are.   Everyone has a different perspective on life. We have to respect others’ outlook, though it may be different from ours.
I have not changed much physically.
Lost my hair, but have not lost weight or appetite.”

“Took on a carpe diem attitude, because we never know.”

“I suffered through anxiety, depression, and gambling addiction. I spent money I didn’t have because I thought I was given a terminal diagnosis. I felt lonely even with support all around me. The journey was painful and difficult, but I “hoped” I could be that one who would get through it. I did a clinical trial that was deemed a failure, but it worked for me. I’m still paying the debt I accumulated while heading down a dark hole. My hope is that people will come to know it’s not a life sentence!!! You can survive this beast!!!”

“I’m more emotionally and physically aware. I feel things strongly and deeply. I listen to my body. I will sit my behind down and rest if my body tells me to.”

“Spiritually, my life changed for the better. The day I received the diagnosis, I sat in my car and prayed, “Dear Lord, if this is the journey you want me to take, I will, but I need you to carry me.” I suddenly was covered in peace and never cried about it again. Emotionally, I have learned to let those I love know that I love them. Before the words, I love you,” I mostly spoke to my family. Now, I tell everyone, “I love you.” On the other side of the coin, I panic with every little cramp or twinge in my abdomen. I think, “Is the beast back?”
Physically – The change in my body physically has been difficult (of course, I am now 60). I was always an athlete. Now, I do well to walk around my yard. I tire out more easily. I have to rest more. I just do not have the same energy that I had before cancer.”

“It has decreased my stamina and balance. I’m no longer work-driven and retired early. I am thankful for every day I’ve got. Traveling more, enjoying life/kids/family more”

“I’ve always had self-esteem issues, and now I think it’s worse. I’ve got a bald head (thankfully, now my hair is slowly coming back in), and scars on my stomach from 2 surgeries I had to have. I was ok with my body before, but now it’s marked up and not easy to hide. I see a lot of ladies embracing a bald head, but that’s not me. I still wear a hat when going outside in public. I had a meltdown when I told my husband I wanted him to shave my head. I absolutely HATE change, and this was an extreme change for me, and everything happened so fast. Trying to grow closer to God, but it’s hard. Never had a good relationship to start with. I always say Why me. Life was good, and then you want to go and throw this huge curveball at us. We made it, but it wasn’t easy. There are still days when I cry. Whether it’s from being tired or having no energy to do anything. It’s still hard even after treatment. Nothing will ever be “normal” again, and it hurts. I don’t think I grieved my old self. If anything, I want my old self back, but I know it’ll never come. I have to adjust to a new normal, and I haven’t figured that out yet. Day-to-day life after treatment, even during treatment, is just that…day to day. You survive daily, focusing on one day at a time.”

“I’m more tired and miss the energy I used to have. My faith has grown, and my relationship with God is stronger. I know He is my strength and healer. But I’m still emotionally shaky sometimes. I have good days and bad days with too much thinking, projecting, and worrying.”

“Of course! Physically, I try to pay more attention to my body. Emotionally? I am much more emotional. Spiritually? God was there and still is. I felt him in a very tangible way a few times.”

“I get quite emotional. I never know when I might start crying. I am scared a lot. It is harder to walk. I get muscle spasms with pain and shortness of breath. My ribs and abdomen hurt at times. I pray more often. I ask God to heal me, and I don’t understand why I still have cancer. It is a rollercoaster of emotions. I am still trying to hold on. I can’t drive currently or do things I used to physically do anymore.”

“Realizing that you are here on this planet for only a short period of time and do not take any of that time for granted, because it can be over in a second.”

“I am much more aware of the need for healthy eating, daily exercise, the impact of environmental toxins, etc. Our bodies were designed to heal, and if we give them the right tools, healing is possible.   Emotionally, I think I am much stronger. I can handle a lot when needed. Spiritually, I think I am much more aware of God in my day-to-day life and His concern for all the details.”

“I realize that I was very lucky. I could have been diagnosed at a later stage. Thank god for that. Physically, the chemo and other meds have aged me a bit. Slowed me down some. But I am doing fine.”

“My mindset is different about life. Don’t take it for granted. Enjoy life. I feel I have gotten closer to God through this journey.”

“I was VERY uncharacteristically emotional after my diagnosis and debulking surgery for several months. My sister, who is a psychologist, recommended I talk to someone. I went to a local OC support group and found MY people. I have become an advocate and educator regarding ovarian cancer. I also work with the Turban Project to sew headwear for newly diagnosed ladies of all of the gynecological cancers to go in bags of hope (containing educational materials, support opportunities, and goodies for treatment).”

“Physically, I am more health-focused. I was before, too, but am more so now. I eat better, more focused on protein, less sugar, less processed foods, less pesticides, and herbicides. Emotionally, I am more thankful, and I prioritize time with family and friends and doing things I enjoy. I’ve cut back at work. I want to make many memories, and I realize how short life can be. Spiritually, I am strengthened. I felt God carrying me through this difficult journey, and I trust He will give strength for all the difficult things in life.”

“At 70, almost 71, I am still fighting the much-ignored symptoms of a complete hysterectomy. Never sleeping through the night, low libido, changes in eyesight, heart palpitations; I could go on and on. Emotional changes and still a feeling of youth lost. You can be grateful to be alive, but the symptoms sometimes bring you to your knees. People want you to be grateful to be alive; they don’t understand the mental and physical changes cancer brings.”

“Physically, I am still dealing with the effects of the hysterectomy and the sudden hormonal changes. I have lingering neuropathy in my hands. I had a quadruple bypass four years after completing treatment due to premature clogging of my arteries… a rare side effect of chemo. I exercise, but I am slower and not as strong. Emotionally, even seven years post-diagnosis, the possibility of recurrence haunts me.”

“Since my diagnosis, life has changed in every way. Physically, I’ve had to face my limits and listen to my body. Emotionally, I’ve learned to release what doesn’t matter and hold tight to what does. Spiritually, my faith has deepened. I trust God more fully now, knowing He’s been faithful through every battle and every breath.”

“Physically, I am not the person I was. Thirteen surgeries and 10 years of constant treatment take a toll. Emotionally, I have learned a lot. No is a complete sentence. Peace and joy are priceless. I have always been a very spiritual person. I have more conversations with God now, versus only praying to God.”

“It’s hard to say…   I had several years NED where there was minimal impact. However, I’ve been in constant treatment for the past 18 months, and I’ll admit it’s tiring at times.”

“Spiritually, I learned to depend on the Lord to make it through each day, as I am unable to walk through my cancer journey without His help. Before my diagnosis, I tended to depend on my own abilities and not as much on the Lord.”

“Ufff! It is life-changing….feeling the uncertainty of what will happen. Having to be dependent on others is difficult for me, but I have learned to go with the flow. I enjoy my life, and having some physical limitations (like tiredness, fatigue, pain, etc) can be challenging. I try to keep a positive attitude and be active (within the things I can do now), doing everyday normal tasks, but even though I try to keep strong, fear tries to play tricks, and I cannot let it take over. Spiritually, it has increased my faith; God’s will is perfect, and I have no control over this. I do my best not to question God and just let Him work on the purpose of my journey.”

What helped you get through your hardest days?

“Community”

“Sleep, breathing, and talking to my friend.”

“One step at a time. One chore at a time, walk as much as I can.”

“Taking it a day at a time. Having long-term and short-term goals. The short-term goal was counting down to the treatments. My long-term goal was to get my younger son through school. If I couldn’t get him to do his homework, I would do it, so I wouldn’t worry. He was finishing 3rd grade when I was diagnosed. He is now 47 and a very successful businessman. So grateful I have lived to see this.”

“Knowing that whatever happens, I will be okay. Life does not end when we leave this earth. We just changed location.”

“Being there for my five kids, who were nineteen through ten at the time, and had no idea I was going through anything.”

“I tried to take my worries and give them over to God.”

“The people around me and my daughters. Even when my peers were scared for me, too – they never showed it to me. They were very encouraging and positive. They helped where I needed it. They took care of my daughters for me when I was in the hospital. I learned that while yes, I can do things alone, I don’t have to.”

“PRAYER & FAITH IN GOD. At a couple of my chemo treatments, I could actually feel people praying for me. It was very humbling. And through every treatment and procedure, I was at peace.”

“Sleep, antidepressants, good talks with friends, journaling, art”

“My husband. During treatment, he would tell me ‘thank you’ every night before bed. Thank you for giving him another day. Thank you for fighting. He still tells me he’s proud of me when I accomplish things (same things I used to do before cancer, just now they take longer to do). He’s my rock.”

“Reaching out to my church family and reading my Bible.”

“Focusing inward, prayer, crying, talking to anyone who would listen, and my husband, who held me tight and let me sob.”

“Pain medicine. Crying. Talking to a friend. Distraction by getting outside in nature. Prayer. Sleep.”

“Knowing that what was happening to me, meaning side effects from chemo, etc., was temporary and was going to make me better. Some days it was harder to believe than others.”

“My youngest 3 daughters (I have 5!) were 12, 11, and 5 when I was diagnosed. I knew that I needed to live for their sakes. The older two are now in nursing school, and my youngest is 12, and we’re doing great! Also, my 2 boys who had their own families – the joy of grandchildren is a great healer!”

“Talking about the cancer. Family and friends.”

“My faith and family.”

“Friends, family, and teal sisters visiting and texting and video calling.”

“My faith, and also my family. My nieces and nephews were a great distraction.”

“I am a strong cookie. Being part of the OCRA, volunteer work, getting the word out, and speaking up have helped me to realize that I am not alone and I must share what I have learned. I am a dinosaur in the ovarian world.”

“My husband, my kids, rest, prayer, and Kraft macaroni and cheese!”

“What got me through my hardest days was leaning on God’s promises, my husband’s steady love, and the prayers of friends and family. Even when I felt weak, their strength and faith reminded me I wasn’t fighting alone.”

“My husband has been my rock, never leaving my side. We laugh, cry, and continue to enjoy life together. With chemo, knowing when I was to finish treatment helped. I can do anything for a limited amount of time when I know when the end is.”

“Faith is at the bedrock of my existence. I’m tremendously grateful for my foundation in faith.”

“Notes of encouragement or prayers written out in the comments of my posts on CaringBridge and Facebook. Also, becoming part of the Ovarian Cancer Christian Fellowship group and reading the Daily “Feels” and News posts.”

“Believing in God and family support. Also keeping up with a positive mental attitude – “One day at a time”. “Things will get better”. “If I have overcome previous situations and God has helped me through it, it can happen again”.

Read Last Week’s Blog Post

Uncategorized

This September, we’re highlighting survivor voices through a special blog series. Through shared questions, survivors opened up about what led to their diagnosis and what survivorship looks like for them today. Some responses reflect on the first signs and symptoms that signaled something was wrong, while others focus on life after cancer—the challenges, the growth, and the hope that carries them forward.

Each week, we’ll feature a selection of these answers, offering an honest glimpse into the journey of survivorship and the strength found in community.

We started by asking survivors how they first knew something wasn’t right, and their responses were powerful. To give each voice space, we’ve divided this question into four parts and will share different answers each week.

What’s one thing you wish more people understood about your gynecologic cancer?

“Age doesn’t matter, family history doesn’t matter.”

“It is not curable. It is an ongoing battle. That even if you look well, treatment will take a toll physically, and I live with the knowledge that any day, at any time, treatment may stop working.”

“How subtle the symptoms are.”

“Look at your family history. If you think you might have inherited your cancer from your mother or your father’s side of the family, get genetic testing. If you test positive, then tell all your relatives on that side of the family to get tested. If they test positive, then they are at high risk. They can then get screened to catch cancer early. Women can get their tubes and ovaries removed to avoid ovarian cancer.”

“I faithfully have a gynecological check-up. I did not realize that ovarian cancer is not detected through Pap smears. Also, CA125 is not a clear indicator of ovarian cancer. My CA125 was 19. Which is within the normal limit, which is anything under 35”

“A cancer diagnosis doesn’t necessarily mean chemo and radiation; it possibly is contained and will hopefully all be removed. It may possibly pop back up if not. I was told that if I had waited any longer, it would have been a worse situation. I was lucky.”

“There is HOPE!!!”

“It’s not always “obvious.” The symptoms associated with it are pretty routine with women, and we are taught as women to “take it.” We brush off a lot of symptoms when we should be paying attention.”

“I wish that more people understood that losing your female organs affects how you see yourself as a woman. I struggled with the thought that I am not a complete woman now. Losing my female organs and my hair was very emotional. I think that was the worst part.”

“You can inherit mutations from either parent, not just the mother.”

“That it’s cancer. Yes, every cancer has a different name- breast, ovarian, lung, etc. That doesn’t make it any different, just because it’s in a different area of your body. I hear a lot, “it’s the good cancer”. No cancer is good PERIOD. People need to understand, cancer is cancer. It’s serious and should be treated as such.”

“There is NO test to detect ovarian cancer. Women need to know AND understand the signs and symptoms. Better education!”

“If something doesn’t feel right in your body, go get checked.”

“That I am scared. It is important for people to think before they speak to me. They need to be sensitive to how what they say might affect me.”

“Wish that there were better ways to diagnose gynecologic cancer because when I was diagnosed, I was Stage 3 already.”

“Symptoms can be nonexistent or extremely vague. Accurately diagnosing these cancers is often really dependent on a physician listening to a patient and being a keen investigator, and knowing the current standard of care.”

“The symptoms are very subtle and easy to overlook or justify.”

“Doctors need to recognize the symptoms, however vague. Listen carefully to what your patient is saying.”

“How sneaky they are. It is so hard to diagnose because they present with common symptoms and tend to get ignored.”

“Ovarian cancer does NOT have an accurate screener to detect early development.”

“I think some people mistakenly think that they somehow did something wrong to get cancer, but this is not really true. Sure, our health habits have consequences, but God is not deciding to give some people cancer because they did something bad and deserve it. The rain falls on the just and unjust, and He carries us through all the things that we go through in this life.”

“You MUST be your own advocate. You MUST listen to your body. And after you survive, you MUST seek medical attention for the rest of your life to combat the symptoms of living without estrogen. Quality can return to your life, but only if you realize how the depletion of estrogen will affect you.”

“I wish more people understood that the physical and mental ramifications of being diagnosed and treated for my cancer did not end the day that I was told I was NED.”

“I wish more people understood that gynecologic cancers don’t always scream for attention; they whisper. You have to know your body, trust your instincts, and push for answers, because early detection can make all the difference.”

“It is possible to live a full life with chronic, metastatic disease. I may not be able to do everything that I used to, but everything I do is with a joyful and grateful heart.”

“There are a variety of types, and a PAP test only detects cervical cancer.”

“The way the symptoms can be passed off as “normal” even by the patient. In my case, I passed off occasional sharp pelvic pain as normal cramping. I didn’t mention it to my husband or a doctor until the pain continued for almost 15 hours.”

“Unfortunately, this cancer does not show many symptoms until later stages, and it is not diagnosed with a PapSmear, and symptoms can go unnoticed. There is no routine exam for ovarian cancer.”

Describe the moment you felt most supported during your cancer journey?

“My parents came to all my Chemotherapy treatments.”

“When 3 of my friends were diagnosed with different cancers within a couple of months of me. They provided so much emotional support. One is clear, one is in remission, and one is still fighting like I am. She and I talk every couple of weeks and share so much information and support one another consistently.”

“I have a great medical team. They are always available.”

“My husband, mother, and brother helped give me courage from the very beginning.”

“My gynecologist immediately started tests in his office. He referred me to a Gyno/Oncologist and called her while I was in his office during that initial visit. There was no delay in getting the care I needed. Also have a strong support system through my family, church, and friends. I definitely am not in this journey alone.”

“I went through this in 2009-2010, but when Teal Diva had their first 5k in Mooresville in May 2014, I suddenly discovered support that I didn’t know existed.”

“I joined a support group for Ovarian Cancer patients, and the support was amazing!!!”

“My employer never made me feel like I’d lose my job because of all the hospital stays and surgeries. My job also understood my need to work and not be out of work for too long because I needed to keep my mind busy with something other than my illness.”

“Once my hair started coming out, I had a dear friend who is a hairstylist buzz my head. When I made the appointment, my three daughters secretly planned a Hat & Cap shower for me. They invited all of my dear friends, had food, cake, and punch (like a baby/bridal shower), and the guests all brought different types of hats, caps, and cancer head covers. The invitations said, “Let’s support Kimberly in her cancer fight and help her maintain her Diva style!” I had bunches of head covers. It was actually fun. I tried on each hat I received and took a picture with the friend who gave it to me. We ate, laughed, cried, and prayed together. I knew at that moment that I had an awesome tribe supporting me in my battle.”

“When my family came to appointments and infusions.”

“My husband has never left my side during this whole journey. He even goes to my follow-ups for maintenance now. He took off work every treatment for a week to take care of me. He’s got a great job. His whole work was constantly checking in and praying for me. I had a lot of people on my side praying for me, and I don’t think I realized that.”

“The first is when I met my surgeon. He took his time explaining my tests and the type of surgery he would perform. He answered all my questions. The second is when I joined the NOCC Facebook group!”

“That’s a hard question. I had tremendous support from my family and my medical team.”

“Being around other women with ovarian cancer is helpful. They understand. Also, I have felt love from friends who have left notes or gift cards for food, check on me, and pray for me. When people tell me that they are there for me..When my husband or children go with me to doctor’s appointments or chemo, I feel supported. When people help with physical things such as yardwork or house cleaning, it has been amazing support.”

“The entire process, my family and very close family friends were making sure that they were here for me and supporting me through this journey.”

“My oldest daughter and her fiancé stayed with me at the ER until 2 am, when they finally brought me to a room. My 2nd daughter and her husband worked with the Red Cross to get him emergency leave from the army to come and be with me after my surgery. My mom, who had her own health problems, sat with me in the hospital throughout my recovery.”

“When I realized I had a good team of doctors treating me.”

“From the very beginning.”

“My husband and son have been troopers and took excellent care of me while working 40+ hour a week jobs.”

“It was not one moment, but all the moments. Friends & co-workers sent cards and flowers, many people said prayers, and I received many supportive messages on Facebook. Even my doctor sent me a very nice card.”

“I never felt supported until I read ‘It’s Always Something, by Gilda Radner.’ Gilda had passed away from Ovarian cancer just before my diagnosis. If not for her, I probably would not be here today, 35 years later.”

“I felt the most connected and supported during the OBX Teal Diva Retreat. I am blessed with a wonderful, supportive husband, family, and close friends who have been by my side through my cancer journey. However, the retreat was the first time that I was able to connect with folks who really understood what I was experiencing.”

“The moment I felt most supported was seeing my husband’s unwavering patience and love, even while I knew he was carrying his own fears. He stayed steady, strong, and present, holding me up on the hard days, making me laugh when I wanted to cry, and showing me through his actions that we were in this fight together.”

“Finding the right support groups and becoming active as an advocate for ovarian cancer has given me hope and strength. I am thankful for the support of women who understand what I go through and blessed to do the same for other women.”

“As difficult as it was to tell people, without exception, I felt tremendous support. So grateful to friends, family, and my church who have consistently stepped up to be there for me.”

“When I saw how many people were praying for me and left notes of encouragement either on my CaringBridge page or my Facebook page, including people that I had not seen in person since our high school graduation.”

“I am so blessed and have to be grateful for all around me, family/friends/brothers, and sisters in Christ, because I have been supported since day one. My family has been by my side every step on this journey, caring for me and helping with everything (even with a personal chauffeur lol, my mom, because she does not want me driving during chemo!). I have an army praying for me, I had people bringing meals/cooking for me, showered with messages/calls, visits, gifts (items to use during this journey), etc.”

We’re grateful to every survivor who opened up with us; your voices bring strength to our community. We’ll continue sharing more survivor voices in next week’s post. Be sure to check back and follow along as this series unfolds throughout September.