September recognized as Ovarian/Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month

Hoover Mayor Gary Ivey issued a proclamation recognizing September as Ovarian/Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month in the City of Hoover during the city council meeting on Monday, Aug. 17.

The proclamation is part of a national campaign to raise awareness of ovarian and gynecologic cancer, the need for research and improved screening tests and to raise support for women battling the deadly diseases. For the fourth year, an initiative called “A State of Teal” is being established to encourage cities and businesses across Alabama to participate in the campaign.

On hand to accept the proclamation was Hoover resident Kelly Rice, an ovarian cancer survivor and A State of Teal chair, as well as Doris Moody, an advocate in the fight against ovarian cancer. In addition to issuing the proclamation, Ivey is supporting efforts to raise awareness by authorizing teal lighting of buildings around Hoover, including Hoover City Hall, the library, the rec center and several fire stations.

Rice said she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer 14 years ago, after delivering her second child via C-section. She said the chance of survival is much better when ovarian cancer is detected early.

“My cancer was discovered rather early [Stage 2] so I survived," Rice said. "We are trying to raise awareness and alert women to go see their doctor. It’s usually discovered late stages — stage 3 or stage 4 — and life expectancy is 18 months after that. Mine was discovered in Stage 2. It can occur in all ages, including young girls.”

The CanSurvive GYN Cancer Support Group, the Laura Crandall Brown Ovarian Cancer Foundation, and Norma Livingston Ovarian Cancer Foundation are collaborating to launch the awareness campaign. Gynecologic cancers include ovarian, cervical, uterine, vaginal and vulvar cancers.

Alabama ranks in the top four states nationally in the death rates of ovarian cancer, and among the top six states in the highest rates of deaths from cervical cancer. Cervical cancer is 100 percent preventable and curable when detected early. For more information on A Taste of Teal campaign, visit www.AStateofTeal.org.