September is Ovarian Cancer Month

Three years ago, my best friend underwent surgery for ovarian cancer. She beat the odds and is doing great. One way I show her how happy I am that she is so blessed and such a fighter is to go a bit overboard on her birthday every year. Another is to spread the word.

September is National Ovarian Cancer month. Ovarian cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer related deaths among women. The risks of developing ovarian cancer increase with age and if one has a family history of this disease. Additionally, a woman who has not given birth also is at a higher risk for developing ovarian and breast cancer. What can we do to help spread the word ovarian cancer? Wear teal. Log onto www.cafepress.com , purveyors of "I will survive" shirts and other items in a lovely teal color.

Ways to spread to word about ovarian cancer- advocacy

Contact your legislators. Ask for funding and support for ovarian cancer research. Join up with an ovarian cancer outreach support network in your area. In 2005, President Bush signed "Johanna's Law," supporting a national campaign to raise awareness among women and in the health care industry. This year the National institutes for Health will have invested 102 million dollars into ovarian cancer research. Fight to make it 110. Or 125 million. Women's health demands it so fight for it.

Ways to spread to word about ovarian cancer- community

Stay informed and stay up to date. Get involved, and get educated. Share this information with others. Tell your story. Listen to others tell theirs. Campaign for free or low cost ovarian cancer blood screening tests in your area.

Ways to spread to word about ovarian cancer- support

Support research and contribute a tax-deductible donation yourself. Do so in your name or for someone you know and love. Someone who may have fought and won, or fought gallantly but did not survive. Hold a fundraising event. Event planners might be willing to work pro bono or at a reduced rate if time management is something you find yourself battling. Explain your intentions and your desired goals. Get the word out through friends, neighbors, families, schools and work. Leave fliers everywhere you are able. Vehicle donations are being accepted as well. However, most of us need our cars. Time and support are something we do have. Volunteer at a hospital or a hospice. Volunteer to read to patients, write letters for them. Take part in a walk. Take part in a run. Look for any events being held in your area and participate! Donate some teal colored shirts to your local cancer ward or your OBG/YN. Or magnets and they even have pet attire!

Ways to spread to word about ovarian cancer- education

Stay educated! Know all the risk factors involved in this disease. Histories of endometrial, colon, or breast cancer are factors as well as obesity. Early detection is crucial (I know that in the case of my best friend!). Symptoms can be difficult to identify and communicating with your doctor is vital to early detection.

In whatever way you feel you can make a difference, or a contribution, do so. Whether it is through testifying before congress for more money, or encouraging your overweight and aging friend whom has never given birth to start walking; you will be glad you did.