DC Has Highest Ovarian Cancer Rate in US: Local Survivor Raises Awareness and Funds in DC

WASHINGTON, June 30, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- At 32, Jennie McGihon was the picture of health and fitness. When she started experiencing irregular bleeding, it took a year of tests and initial misdiagnoses before the true cause was found: stage III ovarian cancer that metastasized to her colon and bladder and stage I uterine cancer.

Washington, DC has the highest ovarian cancer rate in the nation. As Survivors Committee Chair and Spokeswoman for the National Race to End Women's Cancer, Jennie learned first hand the importance of seeking care first from a gynecologic oncologist if you suspect or have been diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer. 

Following a series of appointments, tests, treatments, complications, infections, fatigue, roiling emotions, forgetfulness and pain, two life-altering surgeries and six rounds of chemotherapy later, Jennie has been cancer free for almost two years. 

"I learned about being a survivor from my mom, who was diagnosed with cervical cancer -- another reproductive cancer -- when I was seven," Jennie says. "Twenty-eight years later, she continues to inspire me every day."

Jennie, a senior marketing manager for Deloitte Services, also knows how to motivate individuals and organizations -- and uses those skills to raise awareness and crucial financial support for research on women's cancers. 

"Twenty years ago a group of dedicated women got together and waged a battle to save lives," Jennie points out. "That movement resulted in an explosion of awareness and research funding for breast cancer and today, 34% less women die of that disease. It's time to wage a similar battle against gynecologic cancers."

Jennie urges others to help save women's lives by registering for the National Race to End Women's Cancer on November 6th in Washington, DC. Those who aren't runners or can't make it to Washington can still participate and support the cause by joining a "virtual team." 

For more information and to register, visit www.foundationforwomenscancer.org.  

The Foundation for Women's Cancer is a non-profit organization dedicated to funding research and training, and ensuring education and public awareness of gynecologic cancer prevention, early detection and optimal treatment.

NOTE TO EDITORS: See link for one photo of Jennie McGihon and one of Jennie with her mom:

http://www.xpresspress.com/images/Jennie-solo-color.jpg

http://www.xpresspress.com/images/Jennie-and-mom-3.jpg

Jennie is also available for interviews.

This release was issued through The Xpress Press News Service, merging e-mail and satellite distribution technologies to reach business analysts and media outlets worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.XpressPress.com.

For More Information:
Karen Bate
703-402-2672
[email protected]

SOURCE The Foundation for Women’s Cancer