In May 2022 I was diagnosed with Stage 3c Ovarian Cancer. This was a total shock as I’ve never smoked, drank only very occasionally, was fit and active and had no family history. To date I’ve undergone 2 major surgeries, 8 sessions of chemotherapy, I’ve lost my hair twice, suffered a bowel blockage and now have a permanent stoma (affectionately known as Winnie). My treatment is ongoing and I’ve been told my cancer is incurable although my recent surgery was very successful and I’m hoping the ongoing treatment will prevent it from spreading too much or too quickly or better still not at all 😀.

Ovarian cancer is known as the silent killer as the symptoms often go unnoticed or are put down to the menopause (as was my case) and by the time it is diagnosed it has spread quite considerably. I am keen to raise awareness so that other ladies may be saved from this horrible disease. Symptoms to look out for are:-

Abdominal bloating or swelling

Quickly feeling full when eating

Discomfort in the pelvic area

Fatigue

Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation

A frequent need to urinate.

Before my diagnosis I was a keen runner and whilst not yet up to running I wanted to challenge myself and raise much needed funds for a leading Ovarian Cancer Charity. I will be taking part in the Potters Arf Marathon (albeit walking) on 11.6 .23. My fitness is very poor and I am still having treatment every 3 weeks so this won’t be an easy challenge but it is important for me to have a focus and to raise awareness. If you can donate any amount, however small I will be most grateful.

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