Kelly Spratling passed away this March after over twelve years battling stage IV ovarian cancer. Her remarkable long-term survival defied the odds.

Often referred to as the silent disease, the disease has symptoms, which even in the late stages, are often vague or nonexistent, and there is currently no screening test for diagnosis. The cure rate for stage I exceeds 90%, yet sadly, like our mom, almost all women are diagnosed in late stages, when the five-year survival rate is less than 20%, with a recurrence rate between 70-80%. 

Because of the significant variation in outcomes between early and late stages of ovarian cancer, compounded by vague symptoms, the need for an accurate screening test is evident. There is currently no pap smear or mammogram equivalent for ovarian cancer. However, Kelly's former (and favorite) oncologist, Dr. Benedict Benigno, with his team at the Ovarian Cancer Institute, has developed a simple diagnostic tool capable of detecting all stages of ovarian cancer with nearly 100% accuracy. This groundbreaking test requires only a single drop of blood and will be more affordable than a pap smear. 

Dr. Benigno’s team desperately needs funding to continue to advance to the next phases of testing and expedite FDA approval for their diagnostic tool. His team is also working on more efficacious, less toxic and more personalized forms of treatment that will help women lead longer and more fulfilling lives. 

Please consider making a donation in Kelly’s honor or sharing this message to spread awareness of the Ovarian Cancer Institute’s efforts.