By Dr. Laura Shawver, Founder of The Clearity Foundation
Whenever I talk with someone who just received an ovarian cancer diagnosis, it brings back the feelings that I had when I heard the words, “you have ovarian cancer.” I can relate to their shock. I remember feeling lost. Most importantly, I relate to feeling scared because of the poor prognosis.
Ovarian is an uncommon cancer, and people usually don’t know anyone with the diagnosis. Women want to know someone is in their corner. They look for guidance to navigate their cancer decisions, often beyond what their medical team can offer. Mostly, they want hope that they will get through this and be able to resume their normal life.
I founded Clearity in 2008 because I knew we could do better. As a cancer researcher, I have watched treatment and outcomes improve for other cancers over the past two decades. I believe ovarian cancer patients can benefit from new approaches, and I want these women, and their caregivers, to know about them.
Clearity improves the lives of women with ovarian cancer by providing hope, counsel and science. Now we have an additional level of support – Steps Through OC. This unique, one-on-one program, led by Master’s level counselors who are ovarian cancer specialists, was developed in partnership with Clearity’s long-time supporter, The Susan Poorman Blackie Foundation.
Steps Through OC launched November 2018 and we have currently served nearly 300 women– providing them with information and support when they need it most. I want Clearity to continue to be a valuable source of support for patients and families, a true partner in the treatment journey, and an advocate fiercely dedicated to finding the best treatment option for each woman.
We will be recognizing people in their journey, and those who support them, each day during September’s Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Watch for these inspirational stories, share them with others and help us to bring the future of precision medicine to women battling ovarian cancer today. Thank you for supporting The Clearity Foundation!