Ovarian Cancer Australia is calling out to the community for help in beating the odds against one of the nation’s deadliest cancers.
With statistics showing that one in two women diagnosed with ovarian cancer will not survive beyond five years – resulting in a 49 per cent survival rate – now more than ever, Ovarian Cancer Australia needs your support to change the odds.
An independent not-for-profit organisation, Ovarian Cancer Australia aims to provides care and support to anyone affected by the deadly disease. They are the only organisation in Australia that provides free access to specialist ovarian cancer nurses to anyone affected by the cancer, no matter where they live, such as 50-year-old Sharon from Wallan.
When Sharon found out she had ovarian cancer, she was shocked.
“At first, I was like, why? Why me? How did this happen? I didn’t know much about ovarian cancer, but I quickly learned that it doesn’t discriminate.”
Prior to her diagnosis, like many others, Sharon was unfamiliar with ovarian cancer despite it being the deadliest female cancer in Australia.
She started feeling unwell after a family trip, and at first thought it was just stress from travelling. But when she lost a lot of weight, she decided to see a doctor.
Her symptoms were initially misdiagnosed as constipation, leading to an X-ray without further investigation. When her symptoms persisted, she revisited her doctor, stressing her unimproved health. Further tests confirmed her ovarian cancer diagnosis in August, 2023.
Grateful for the support provided to her by her Teal Support Program nurse, she emphasised the importance of such resources, and acknowledged the encouragement from her family, friends, and medical care team.
“Luckily, I have a Teal Nurse that supports me. She’s so caring and supportive. Di gives me an understanding of what is going on and breaks it down a little bit. More than anything, it’s the fact that she just gets it, and I can tell her anything,” Sharon said.
Sadly, Sharon is facing a recurrence of the disease – a common occurrence for those initially diagnosed, with 70 per cent experiencing a recurrence within three years.
She is now undergoing another round of treatment and has had to experience many of the emotions all over again, highlighting the importance of ongoing support.
Ovarian Cancer Australia’s Acting Chief of Support and Advocacy Bridget Bradhurst extended support to anyone in the community affected by the disease.
“No matter who you are or where you live, if you or a loved one are affected by ovarian cancer, we’re here for you,” she said.
“From free specialist telehealth support provided by our ovarian cancer nurses, through to information and support resources, we are here to ensure you don’t walk alone.
“As a national organisation, we recognise that disparities in care can exist across regional and remote areas, so our services have been crafted to bridge this gap and work toward better outcomes for all Australians impacted by ovarian cancer.”
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