EVERY year in Australia, around 1,815 women are sadly diagnosed with ovarian cancer. February is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, and women are being encouraged to know the symptoms and to see their GP if concerned.
Murchison local Luisa Niglia, was diagnosed with Stage 3C ovarian cancer in July 2021, 10 months after showing initial symptoms of fatigue, bloating, and hair loss. Despite informing her GP of a possible ovary growth in May 2021, an ultrasound and x-ray returned as non-urgent. Pushing for additional testing, Luisa had a CT scan in July, which led to her diagnosis.
Luisa’s family, friends, and the local community have provided incredible support during her treatment, and her determination to overcome the disease is unwavering. She has joined forces with three other survivors around Australia to warn women not to dismiss early symptoms of the deadly disease, which is the eighth most common type of cancer in Australia and the sixth most common type to lead to loss of life.
“Being a lower-incidence cancer that often presents with vague symptoms, those presenting to their GPs are often not considering their symptoms may be attributed to ovarian cancer,” said Ovarian Cancer Australia’s national ovarian cancer advocacy and support services chief, Bridget Bradhurst.
“We hope that by raising awareness of the disease and elevating the voices of women impacted by ovarian cancer, we can change the landscape of this disease. For all those diagnosed in the future, we want to improve their experiences and outcomes by providing ongoing access to specialist support and services.”
Ovarian Cancer Australia have partnered with Black Pepper to create specially made fashion items, modelled by Luisa and other survivors, with a portion of sales going to Ovarian Cancer Australia this month, starting from February 1.
You can also support them by donating on Giving Day (Feb 28), where every dollar donated will be matched, or hosting a ‘Teal Tea Day’. For more information visit www.ovariancancer.net.au/
