In honor of Ovarian Cancer Awareness month, we want to highlight Warrior and Friend in the Fight Kim Conklin’s story:
“In July of 2013, I was diagnosed with stage 3C High-Grade Ovarian Cancer, through major surgery at MGH. I was experiencing every symptom of menopause, and at age 52, that was my explanation. It was the painful stomach aches that brought me to my primary care doctor. But she did not suspect ovarian cancer. Fortunately, she did order a vaginal ultrasound which discovered the masses. I had a full hysterectomy, omentectomy, appendectomy, bowel resection, ureter stents, pulmonary embolism, blood infection, and 2 ports implanted, used for 6 months of chemo.
Recurrence came within 17 months and I repeated 6 months of chemo. The diagnosis was terminal—a couple of years. Through a clinical trial and a now FDA-approved drug, I now see my oncology team for routine scans only.
A year ago, when the reality hit me that my original definition of “terminal” had been extended, I accepted a part-time job. Now my mindset is that I’ll live well into my 90’s, so I’m working full time and feeling perfectly fine!”
In honor of Kim and all Ovarian Cancer fighters and survivors, we partnered with The Julie Fund on their Thriver event with Massachusetts General Hospital to bring more awareness to ovarian cancer signs, symptoms, and risk factors.
PS: At both of these events, you can enter to win a Cocoon Cardigan, designed specifically for cancer patients!