Hi, my name is Maria LaCorte and I battled Ovarian Cancer.

I was diagnosed with this unthinkable disease in November of 2006, and underwent a 6 hour operation when my Dr gave me a complete hysterectomy, along with the removal of several tumors in my abdomen. I have completed my sessions of chemotherapy. I had some really bad days, and then I had some good days, those which I have decided to dedicate some time to educate and bring awareness to others about Ovarian Cancer.

The symptoms are silent:
• Abdominal discomfort, bloating, a feeling of fullness, gas
• Frequent urination
• Nausea, indigestion, change in bowl habits
• Pelvic discomfort and heaviness
• Weight loss or gain, fatigue, backaches

Many women experience these symptoms on a monthly basis, and I just ignored them (endured it for over 1 year) thinking that I was at a certain age where my body started doing strange things – I was wrong. My pap test came back negative, but when I started feeling sharp pains in my right ovary, and asked for an ultrasound – that’s when a large mass was found. Within 2 weeks, I was sent for more blood test (CA125), had a ct-scan, sent to a gynecological specialist, then to a gynecological oncologist, and had surgery. It was a stage 3 Ovarian Cancer and my chemotherapy was a form of prevention, putting me in a category where this cancer should not come back.

My doctor, Dr. Walter Gotlieb, who is my oncologist and surgeon, is the Director of Gynecologic Oncology at the Jewish General Hospital. He is in the midst of developing a drug that stops what feeds the cancer. I am excited to know that one day soon, other women would not have to go through what I’ve had to. I am happy to help raise funds to support Dr Gotlieb’s research. A committee was formed called " Friends for Life" and on Friday, November 16th of 2007, we held a fundraiser gala and proud to announce that we raised $25,000. By the reaction of our guests, we realize that this must become an annual event. I will keep you posted with any news.