In January 2007, my mom was diagnosed with Stage 4 ovarian cancer, and my life was forever changed when she passed away just five short weeks later. I recall afterwards thinking how many times I had heard that ovarian cancer was a “silent killer,” yet, we had not heeded the warnings through the early signs and symptoms my mom was experiencing.
I began running 27 years ago, and since, have always found energy, strength, and endurance to power through the challenges of life by throwing on my sneakers and hitting the pavement. As my interest in running progressed, my mom would be on the sideline at every local race I entered, cheering me on. She supported me tirelessly in every aspect of my entire life, and we shared a formidable bond that I carry as strongly with me today as I did yesterday, and will continue to do so tomorrow.
While I have run a handful of half-marathons, it has always been on my bucket list to take on a full marathon, and I feel privileged to have been accepted to run with Team Tell Every Amazing Lady® in honor of the enduring light of my life — my mom!
May these efforts bear the fruit of raising awareness — amongst all women — of the early signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer, and, ultimately, maintain the lights of so many lives.
