Clyde residents have helped raise $3,250 in funds for ovarian cancer research during a High Tea held on Wednesday February 20.
About 100 guests enjoyed a high tea with cakes and scones donated by local cafes and pharmacy staff and some fun raffles at the fundraising event held at TerryWhite Chemmart.
Guests had the opportunity to listen to speeches by ovarian cancer survivor and local resident Sally-Ann Dale and Katya Gray, whose mother passed away from ovarian cancer.
Ovarian cancer survivor and Clyde resident Sally-Ann Dale, who spoke at the event, said she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2011 after she noticed some unusual stomach bloating.
“I was working, I felt fine, I didn’t feel sick or anything, but I didn’t like the look of my stomach,” she said.
“I went to the doctor and had an ultrasound. Ten minutes after the ultrasound the doctor wanted to see me – I was diagnosed with Stage 3 ovarian cancer.
“I was very lucky I went to the doctor. The main sign of ovarian cancer is bloating, so if you feel bloated, get it checked because it might save your life. If I hadn’t done it, I wouldn’t be here now.”
February is Ovarian Cancer Awareness month, which recognises women, their family and their friends who have been affected by ovarian cancer.
TerryWhite Chemmart Clyde pharmacist Carolyn Wynen said the event was important in raising awareness for ovarian cancer
“Ovarian cancer impacts everyone,” she said. “Most people know someone who has been affected, whether it’s a mother, wife, daughter or friend. As it’s not readily detected, ovarian cancer can definitely sneak under the radar and it’s important that everyone is aware of the symptoms.”
Every day, four Australian women are diagnosed and three women will die from ovarian cancer. The most common reported symptoms are increased abdominal size or persistent abdominal bloating, abdominal or pelvic (lower tummy) pain, feeling full after eating a small amount, needing to urinate often or urgently.
All proceeds from the event will go to Ovarian Cancer Australia.
