Have the ladyballs to take action this September
July 31, 2017
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month is around the corner
Even as August gives way to the dog days of summer, the community surrounding this important cause is ramping up efforts. Presently, volunteers and committees throughout the country are preparing for September, Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.
Activities kick off with Wear Teal Day. On Friday, September 1, wear as many shades of teal as you can, and post a photo of your outfit on social media using hashtag #ladyballs. When people ask about your fashion statement, tell them teal is the colour of ovarian cancer awareness and share how this disease has impacted your life. Bring attention to the need for more research and improved access to treatment, and invite those you meet to visit ovariancanada.org/advocate to write to their elected representatives.
Every letter and every voice helps further the effort to demand government action. While Ovarian Cancer Canada and volunteer advocates nationwide continue to meet with the country’s decision makers, it’s clear that the path to change is a marathon, not a sprint. Government continues to suggest that enough is being done about ovarian cancer in Canada. If you disagree and know that more must be done – now is the time to speak up and urge an immediate federal investment of $10 million for ovarian cancer research.
Doreen Phimister
“Sure, no one handed us a cheque for $10 million for research – yet. But it’s the squeaky wheel that gets the grease,” says Doreen Phimister, who is five years out of treatment for ovarian cancer. “From my experience in government, it does make a difference if you keep at it.”
Another way to take action is through registering and fundraising for the Ovarian Cancer Canada Walk of Hope. This special event takes place on September 10 in most locations* – be sure to visit ovariancancerwalkofhope.ca for specific details about the Walk in your area.
The Walk continues to be the most powerful nationwide event to dedicate all awareness and fundraising to overcoming ovarian cancer. It’s also an important touch point for the community. For instance, the event is often the first time women who have been diagnosed come face to face with others who can relate to their experiences firsthand.
“I had never met anyone else living with ovarian cancer, until I attended the Walk,” says Wanda (Rathgeber) Briggs of her experience last year. “When I arrived on Walk Day, I thought: holy cow, these are my people. I had no idea there were so many of us.”
Wanda (Rathgeber) Briggs (right) with Walk team members
This year’s Walk brings the official launch of a new resource developed to enable women with ovarian cancer to connect with one another for advice and encouragement to help confront this disease. This circle of support is vital and empowering – your fundraising for the Walk makes it possible. So as your continue your efforts leading up to the big day, be sure to let your family, friends and colleagues know their donations will enable women living with ovarian cancer to live fuller and better lives.
Throughout the course of September you’ll find teal graphics on social media that will test knowledge about the disease and highlight important facts about ovarian cancer in Canada. When you see them, share them with your friends and followers to increase awareness - because knowledge is power.
Get social with us. Look on Facebook for a teal frame that you can use to customize your profile photo and show your #ladyballs this September.
*Walks in Ottawa, ON; Ajax, ON; Yarmouth, NS; and Charlottetown, PEI occur on different dates, visit ovariancancerwalkofhope.ca for details.