“Throughout my treatment for ovarian cancer, I always had this mantra playing in the back of my head. I’m healthy. I don’t smoke. I’m athletic and active. This shouldn’t be happening to me. But it did.

In fact, I only had 24 hours to make a lifesaving decision. My diagnosis and treatment were that fast.

Before cancer, I had no idea who to even talk to. Yet, my care team, chosen in haste, has been amazing. I had to make quick decisions, but they turned out to be the right ones.

I’m truly grateful. I realize now how important it is to be a voice for yourself. So, I encourage everyone to be an advocate. You have to go with that gut feeling and recognize the early warning signs.”