Ovarian cancer is the 11th most common cancer for women, and is the fifth leading cause of cancer related death. Ovarian cancer diagnosis is most common in women age 55 – 65 and the survival rates are much lower. Depending on the stage of ovarian cancer, it is harder to treat, however like with most cancers, the earlier the detection the higher the survival rate.
The American Cancer Society estimates that over 21,000 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2014, and of those around 14,000 cases will be fatal. It is the most serious of cancers of the female reproductive system. Yearly visits to your gynecologist along with Pap tests can greatly help in preventing advanced stages. Thanks to more preventative measures the rate of women that have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer is falling in the last 20 years. Modern medicine along with advanced treatments has helped women fight back against such a debilitating disease. This is one woman’s story of battling back against ovarian cancer.
“Every woman with ovarian cancer has a story.”
Meet Elise, a hardworking stay-at-home wife whose story begins at the age of 52.
“I thought I was in good health, not perfect, but pretty decent. I was married for 15 years and raised a beautiful daughter. My days were spent gardening, watching my soap operas, and enjoying a quiet life of retirement at home.
I went to my primary physician in 2001 for a regular check-up. I didn’t have any history of cancer, and thought my chances of being diagnosed were slim to none. I told my doctor about a virus I had that lingered for about 6 weeks, and pointed out some swollen lymph nodes on my neck. My physician told me that was too long for a virus, and referred me to a specialist I had seen in previous years regarding a non-cancerous tumor.
I should have known something was wrong when he volunteered to make the appointment for me. Soon after, I was undergoing my yearly exam at my gynecologist’s office and he discovered a small tumor on my left ovary. Meanwhile, my results from the biopsy on the lymph node tumor came back and doctors discovered the lymph node tumor was not the primary site, and began working to find out what was causing the issue. I was diagnosed with advanced breast cancer and ovarian cancer.
At first I was in shock and disbelief, and things moved rather quickly after that. I underwent surgery to remove the breast, and once I was recovered I also underwent a hysterectomy. My physician was kind, and explained that he didn’t want to drastically affect my quality of life. Fast forward months later: He said that I was responding well to chemotherapy and other treatments. He is actively monitoring the lymph node tumor, which is decreasing in size.
I am feeling stronger most days, however there are still some days where I am weak. My main goal is to be strong enough to take my granddaughter trick-or-treating this Halloween. I am fighting back with all I have.