Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month - Leanne’s Mam’s story

March was Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in the UK. Putting the spotlight on ovarian cancer helps to spread awareness of symptoms and statistics, and gives the chance to share important stories of the 7,500 women diagnosed each year.

In recognition of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month Leanne Harrison, NHSSC Customer Services Training & Quality Coordinator, shares the inspiring story of her mother's experience with ovarian cancer.

“In January 2023, our world was shattered when my Mam was diagnosed with high-grade serous peritoneal cancer at stage III. This came as a total shock as she had always been in great health. We were told that due to the nature and severity of her condition, it was not curable but was treatable.”

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that affects the ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system. It can develop when abnormal cells grow in and around the ovaries and fallopian tubes.

“As there are very few symptoms associated with ovarian cancers, my Mam thought she just had a water infection or that she had overeaten. It wasn’t until she developed acute ascites (fluid on the tummy), and this was drained and tested, that we had any idea of the seriousness of her condition.

“As my Mam also carries the PAL B2 gene, she fortunately qualified for PARP inhibitors which we were told would keep the cancer at bay for as long as her body can tolerate the treatment. Over the past few months, we have had lots of ups and downs while her body adjusts to the drug, but things finally seem to be settling down and she is gradually regaining her strength as each day passes.

“In February 2023 she underwent total debulking surgery, which was then followed by six rounds of chemotherapy. Her most recent scans provided us with the best news we could have wished for; no evidence of disease!

“This Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, in honour of my amazing warrior Mammy, I held an Elevenses event at our Alfreton site on 20 March with cakes, pastries and cuppas galore! Everyone was welcome, and it was great to see Unipart colleagues showing such amazing support. Colleagues at our Gorsey Point site also held an Elevenses event on my behalf and together we raised a whopping £646!

“The support, generosity and compassion given by all who contributed meant the absolute world to my Mam, my Dad and myself. We never imagined we would surpass the original target of £150. Most of all it made me extremely proud to part of such an amazing workforce and how much we pulled together to spread awareness of this disease, and also how absolutely amazing women like my Mam are battling through each and every day.”

Although Ovarian Cancer Month is now over, there are still plenty of ways you can raise awareness and support all those in a similar position to Leanne and her family.

Leanne explained: “My aim is to raise awareness of this disease and make as much money as possible for the cause. All proceeds from the Elevenses event will be donated to the Target Ovarian Cancer Charity.

“I had set up a fundraiser on my Facebook page but this has now expired. However, should you wish to donate directly to the charity you can do so by using this link.”