September proved to not only be  a busy month for the Arkansas Ovarian Cancer Coalition, but an equally productive one as well. 

A great crowd turned out for our awareness rally at the State Capitol, which kicked off the month of events.  Governor Beebe signed the proclamation declaring September the official awareness month for ovarian cancer.  Rep. Kathy Webb announced the proclamation and Dr. Burnett spoke on the signs and symptoms of this disease.  Our own coalition member, Carrie Bumgardner, told her story of being diagnosed with ovarian cancer at the very young age of 25, and how she celebrates being a survivor for over 3 years now.  Robbie Linn of Stage I Diagnostics let us know about current research and exciting things on the horizon in early detection for the disease.

We also hosted a survivor and friends luncheon at the Governor’s Mansion. The First Lady greeted every guest at the door while Kim Norton entertained us with piano and song. The Governor spoke to his personal connection with this disease. His mother lost her battle to ovarian cancer, and he stands supportive on the coalition’s efforts in education not only on the signs and symptoms, but on the importance of early detection.  Several coalition members spoke about the importance of our group to them and the reasons they became involved.  Each story is different, but at the core is the same. We share a bond that is wrapped around this disease and are steadfast in making it “silent no more”.

Artists for Ovaries was our first ever fundraiser and we are beyond excited to report it was a great success.  With over 60 wonderful, eclectic pieces of art donated, and with over 200 in attendance, we raised close to $9000. This will go a long way in our efforts of educating others.

 

I am so proud to say I am an ovarian cancer survivor. I am so proud to have had the honor of serving as chair for this innovative and vibrant group. Soon Amy Lasseigne will be taking the reigns and will be getting the credit I often get, but she deserves.

 

We are overwhelmed by the support we receive and it keeps us going.  Thank you for helping us spread the word.

Teal next time,

Leah Elliott, Chairman

Arkansas Ovarian Cancer Coalition

If you would like to send in any donations, you may use PayPal or please mail them:

Arkansas Ovarian Cancer Coalition, PO Box 7796, Little Rock, AR 72217

Please visit our Contact Us page if you would like to become involved.

The Arkansas Ovarian Cancer Coalition (AROVCC) has developed into the driving force against ovarian cancer in the State.  The AROVCC exists with the purpose to educate the public about the signs and symptoms affecting the women of Arkansas. Our membership is comprised of individuals who each have been personally impacted by ovarian cancer. We work to help save lives by disseminating information on the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer, ovarian cancer research, and resources available. By promoting professional and public awareness through educational materials, mass mail-outs, rallies, seminars and fundraising events we hope to inform every woman within the state of Arkansas. The AROVCC is a 501(c)3 Non-Profit Organization.

The AROVCC is in the process of developing literature detailing the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer. The literature will be provided first to Gynecologists and eventually to Primary Care Physicians within the State of Arkansas. The literature will be designed to provide awareness to the public, as well as the professionals within the various offices, with the information needed for early detection of this silent and deadly disease.

The AROVCC hosts annual awareness rallies on the grounds of the Arkansas State Capitol. The rallies are a place for survivors and others who have been personally impacted by ovarian cancer to join together to raise awareness. Survivors will share their story of triumph and courage and keynote speakers will discuss current research and other resources available.