Diagnosed in 4th grade at the age of 9, Ovarian cancer rocked my family's world.  I had a rare ovarian cancer – an Immature Teratoma, stage IIIc.  The tumor was the size of a grapefruit on my left ovary.  The cancer cells were starting to metastasize on my abdominal wall and dozens of tissue samples were taken.  2 weeks later, I had a Hickman catheter implanted in my chest, and shortly thereafter, chemotherapy at the OB/GYN clinic of University of MN began.  Living in central Minnesota, it was a daily drive to Minneapolis for my treatment regimen: each day of the first week of the month, over the course of 9 months.  It was a strange and scary experience itself, but even more so being a young kid in a clinic filled with grey-haired ladies!  I was still a child; my doctors and parents had drawings of body parts to explain the situation as I had not begun puberty and it was all so “weird”! I was no longer a kid. 

There was no history of cancers in my family – and 35 years later – this is still true.  I’m the cancer history that I worry about for my children, my mom - and the other females in my family. 

Surviving 9 months of aggressive chemotherapy and multiple invasive surgeries, I went on to have 3 kids of my own - who are true miracles. 

I want to be an inspiration for those who are fighting cancer. I’m passionate about spreading awareness about ovarian cancer, including fundraising for MOCA and participating in yearly HOM Teal Strides for Ovarian Cancer 5K event with family and friends.  I want to be a beacon of hope for those who have been diagnosed.  Even though I went through some very adult situations as a young kid, it shaped who I am today.  I’m blessed with an awesome family, and a healthy life.

In 2015, I celebrated 30 years since my final round of chemo by creating a team for the annual MOCA 5K.  MOCA providea support to women with ovarian cancer, raises awareness and advances ovarian cancer research.  This year, 2019, will be the 5th annual MOCA 5K for my team... join me?  :)