No joke! April Fools Day is a big anniversary for me. On April 1, 2009 I was diagnosed with Stage 3-C ovarian cancer. Good Friday, a day of fasting and penance, is another anniversary – that was the day of my first surgery. Most of us don’t forget the dates of these milestones, and in my case the significance of the holidays makes it even easier. 
Ovarian Cancer Facts:
- All women are at risk.
- Ovarian cancer is the deadliest of the gynecological cancers.
- Pap smears detect cervical cancer not ovarian cancer.
- Symptoms may be subtle.
- When detected early and treated properly, more than 90% of women survive longer than 5 years.
Ovarian Cancer Symptoms:
- Bloating
- Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
- Need to urinate often or urgently
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
Other symptoms commonly reported:
- Fatigue
- Indigestion
- Back pain
- Constipation
- Menstrual irregularities
- Pain with intercourse
Take Action:
See your doctor, preferably a gynecologist, if you have these symptoms almost daily for more than a few weeks and they are unusual for you. Experts suggest a combination of pelvic exam, CA-125 blood test and trans-vaginal ultrasound. Prompt medical evaluation may lead to detection at the earliest possible stage of the disease. Early stage diagnosis is associated with an improved prognosis.
For any questions about our organization, please email President@ocaofsd.org. Thank you.
