I feel so blessed that I have been a part of the “Let’s Talk it Ovar” support group for Gynecological Cancers and have met so many brave and amazing women who have and are going through this same journey.

Through this journey I have learned not to ask, “why me” but “what” am I to learn from it. I know that God takes us through the storms of life and it is through these storms that we feel His presence, peace and comfort the most.

I thank God for this journey He is taking me through as I know He loves me and is perfecting His will in my life.

Almost immediately after my first surgery, I was told I also had a very quiet (and growing) case of stage three ovarian cancer. If not for that “accidental” discovery, my story might not have had such a positive spin. I’ve been nine years cancer free now, and I try to do something to raise awareness and funds toward a cure, particularly during September (Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month).

Giving back any way I can is one of my greatest missions in life. We need to cure this disease before we lose any more magnificent women.

On September 17, my grandmother, Rita turned 80. It was a fitting coincidence that this special occasion fell on the same week as the OCC of NW Ohio & SE Michigan’s Walk to Break the Silence on Ovarian Cancer.

The chance to celebrate both her monumental birthday and her survival inspired our family and friends to fly in from Florida, Boston and California to join team “Happy Birthday Rita.”This birthday was more than cake and ice cream, but an opportunity to bring awareness of this disease to those who pledged us to walk.