In 2018 a Grade 3a Ovarian Cancer tumour measuring 24cm was removed from my mum's stomach. She had no apparent symptoms! Having had breast cancer 13 years earlier she was referred for genetic testing where we discovered she carried the BRCA1 genetic mutation. My brothers and I had a 50% chance of inheriting the gene, and sadly all 3 of us were diagnosed as positive carriers! Shortly afterwards we learnt that my cousin Joanna had also inherited the mutated gene; and shockingly, the IBS she was being treated for at the time turned out to be stage 1 ovarian cancer . She was 29 years old at the time!

What unfolded shortly afterwards has been nothing short of a mental marathon. Mum's Ovarian Cancer returned for the 2nd time in December 2020 & she is currently undergoing gruelling chemotherapy again. Joanna underwent two major surgeries to remove her ovaries and fallopian tubes and and both Joanna and myself have recently had preventative mastectomies with reconstruction.
Many people haven't heard of BRCA 1- It means a lifetime risk of up to 85% of Breast Cancer and 60% of Ovarian Cancer. While huge developments have been made in Breast Cancer treatment, sadly the same cannot be said for Ovarian, in fact little has changed in the treatment regime over the last 30 years.

I have a beautiful niece, aged 2 years old who may also carry the gene. We won't know until she is much older and can be tested. With her in mind I am especially anxious that we work to change the course of ovarian cancer survival for the future. Ovarian Cancer Action funds research that focuses on the prevention, early detection and treatment of Ovarian Cancer. Too often Ovarian Cancer is found at a late stage when survival rates are low.

This year I want to not only help fund OCA's research but I want to help connect fellow BRCA women to the key information and resources they need to understand their genetic risk, watch out for symptoms & potentially think about risk-reducing surgery down the line.

I appreciate you taking the time to read this & will be so grateful if you can make a donation to help me! Much love, Sarah xx