Lewes turns teal for September

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, and throughout Lewes teal ribbons adorn various posts and signs remind individuals to get checked and understand symptoms.

The Delaware Ovarian Cancer Foundation is leading the drive in the First State, partnering with survivors, municipalities, organizations and businesses to not only display the ribbons, but provide information to stay informed about the unique type of cancer. There is currently no standard screening to detect ovarian cancer.  Anyone born with ovaries should be aware of their risk for ovarian cancer, regardless of their gender identity.

Symptoms of the disease can often be subtle, and one of the purposes of the campaign is to let people know what to do if they should experience any of the following for 10 to 14 days. Symptoms include bloating; pelvic or abdominal pain; gas, nausea or indigestion; altered appetite; frequent and urgent urination; unexplained changes in bowel habits; unexplained weight gain/loss; ongoing unusual fatigue; back pain; menstrual changes; and pain during intimacy.

On Sept. 2, the Lewes Chamber of Commerce, Beebe Healthcare, the City of Lewes, ovarian cancer survivors and other local leaders gathered in Zwaandendael Park for a special ceremony. Henri Belcher-Stack, a survivor and advocate, delivered a speech about her journey and what others can do if they find themselves diagnosed or feeling the symptoms associated with the disease. Belcher-Stack was treated at Beebe’s Tunnell Cancer Center and says she felt so well taken care of that she volunteers at the medical facility now.

“Make sure you have those conversations with your doctor. There isn’t a test, but if you’re on your own, advocate and just keep pushing,” Belcher-Stack said.

As many as 80% of patients with ovarian cancer will go into remission after their initial treatment, but 60% will have a recurrence. Maintenance therapy is provided to help delay or reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.

To learn more about ovarian cancer, including the symptoms and risks, go to turnthetownsteal.org. More information about the Delaware Ovarian Cancer Foundation is available at deovariancancer.org.