TEAL is the color for ovarian cancer, and September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Many of the blogs that will be forthcoming this month will be about ovarian cancer. Every female of all ages, as well as those individuals who are or could be their care partners, will benefit from each blog.
T.E.A.L. Tell Every Amazing Lady about ovarian cancer.
Please note that I say female rather than woman. If you have or ever had ovaries, you are at risk, including those who have had a hysterectomy.
Knowledge about every cancer and disease is important. I am a 12-year survivor of ovarian cancer, and I am fortunate to have lived with this disease as long as I have. I say that because:
The American Cancer Society predicts that in 2020, about 21,750 women will be diagnosed, and 13,940 will die. Putting that into perspective, here are a few cities with populations of about 20,000:
- Farmington, MN 21,086
- Christiansburg, VA 21,041
- Forest Grove, OR 21, 083
You will read stories from and about other survivors. I will also introduce some new drugs, ongoing research, surgical techniques, and HOPE. Ovarian cancer is a challenge, but the more each woman knows and acts upon its symptoms the better. To end on a positive note, there are approximately 250,000 survivors in the U.S. today.
For the entire month of September, I will be offering free copies of my paperback book, Outshine: An Ovarian Cancer Memoir. To receive your free copy, send me your name and address in the “contact” section of my website. This information will remain confidential. A symptom card will be included in each book.
Your comments are appreciated. Your questions are welcome. Thank you.
KAREN INGALLS, AUTHOR, BLOGGER & SURVIVOR 