Today on World Ovarian Cancer Day, we are proud to share the powerful story of Heather Hawkins – ovarian cancer survivor, global marathon runner, patient advocate, and a valued Board Advisor at Cartherics.

After being diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2007, Heather transformed her experience into a mission of awareness, action, and hope. Her survivorship, combined with the devastating loss of others to this disease, led her to advocate for the advancement of innovation in cancer care.

Q&A with Heather Hawkins

What inspired you to become a patient advocate and board advisor at Cartherics after your ovarian cancer diagnosis?

Receiving an ovarian cancer diagnosis in 2007 completely changed my life. And in the subsequent years, my survivorship has placed me in a space where I’ve witnessed the low survival rate (only 49% beyond 5 years) play out in the lives of women around me. The continued loss impacts me deeply. It motivates me to find ways to give back and help bring change. So when the opportunity arose to become a patient advocate and board advisor at Cartherics I embraced it. For I believe Cartherics’ groundbreaking research, treatment development and future clinical trials will significantly increase survival rates and improve the quality of life for those with ovarian cancer, as well as other cancers and conditions such as endometriosis. It’s an absolute privilege to lend my energy and voice to support this impressive team.

 

What do you want women to know about ovarian cancer?

I would love for all women to be familiar with the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer, and to seek medical assistance if they are experiencing them. To also understand that a pap smear only detects cervical cancer, not all gynaecological cancers. And to recognise the real importance of knowing their family medical history and potential related risks – because being informed about our own health, and in tune with our bodies, is truly empowering and lifesaving.

 

You’ve run marathons on every continent – how does endurance running tie into your mission?

Can you believe I started running with only a simple, short term goal in mind – to increase my fitness and to feel strong again after my diagnosis – but it grew quickly into something more, and I’ve found myself running marathons and ultra marathons in remote, awe-inspiring locations! In all honesty it’s been quite an unexpected journey, but one which brings me so much joy, fulfilment, challenge and purpose, along with precious opportunities to raise awareness and funds for ovarian cancer research and support services. I really hope it encourages others to connect with their own fitness goals and embrace possibilities too.

 

What’s your message to others facing ovarian cancer?

My personal message to others facing this news:

Receiving an ovarian cancer diagnosis is a very challenging experience, and suddenly the future can appear uncertain, and unknown, but remember you are not alone on this journey as there are support services and resources available through foundations such as Ovarian Cancer Australia. As you navigate your treatment and recovery, always remember to be kind to yourself, practice self care, surround yourself with supportive friends and family, exercise gently, eat nourishing foods, rest sufficiently, do those things that bring you joy. And hold onto hope, for I believe the incredible work that Cartherics is doing is going to bring positive change in this space.

 

You’re taking part in the Mother’s Day Classic this year, what does that event mean to you?

This is such a special event! The 2012 Mother’s Day Classic was the very first run I signed up for and was a big step up in my journey back to fitness following ovarian cancer. It also gave me the chance to publicly honour my Grandmother and Aunty who’d had breast cancer. I’ll never forget how emotional I felt as I laced up my runners and how special it was to have my two children run alongside me.

And today, what makes it an even more significant race is that organisers have broadened the messaging and fundraising to include ovarian cancer too –  a collaboration with the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation. I’m really looking forward to lacing up my shoes again this Mother’s Day!

 

What gives you hope today on World Ovarian Cancer Day?

World Ovarian Cancer Day – the 8th of May – gives me so much hope because it brings ovarian cancer into the spotlight and straight into conversations, news stories and social media. It gives it an international platform. This awareness will help save lives.