Stories

Read the personal experiences of people affected by ovarian cancer, from coping with their diagnosis to sharing tips for treatment and what support they'd recommend. 

A photo of Amanda in October 2016 a month before her diagnosis sat outside in the garden
Amanda's story

Amanda was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2016, but an existing heart defect meant that surgery came with high risks and complications.

Gillian smiling holding her baby great nephew
Gillian and Catherine's story

Gillian passed away from ovarian cancer in 2018, surpassing all expectations after her diagnosis in October 2015. Her niece Catherine is sharing her story to celebrate the incredible woman she was and how she made every second count.

An image of Sarah with her hand touching her face, laughing, with a pink background
Sarah's story

Sarah had read about the symptoms of breast cancer and ovarian cancer after finding out her mother had the BRCA1 gene. She still didn’t recognise the signs before her diagnosis in July 2021.

Charlotte and her husband trekking for Target Ovarian Cancer
Charlotte's story

GP Charlotte Badescu shares her story of being diagnosed with a rare type of ovarian cancer and how her experience has given her further insight into patient care and experiences.

A photo of Gemma smiling before her diagnosis
Gemma's story

After being diagnosed with womb cancer, Gemma received a separate diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Gemma praises her GP practice for helping her receive a correct diagnosis and encourages others to keep persisting.

A selfie of summer in a brown top smiling to the camera
Summer's story

Summer was diagnosed with stage 1c ovarian cancer at 18 years old. She's sharing her story so that other people of a similar age don’t feel isolated and are encouraged to see their GP. 

A headshot image of Catherine
Catherine's story

Catherine was diagnosed with Stage 3 ovarian cancer in 2019. Since then she has been campaigning to make ovarian cancer a health priority, and to improve early diagnosis. 

A keyring with Adam's mum Jackie's photo that he is holding up in the dessert whilst doing the Marathon Des Sables
Adam and Jackie's story

Adam has raised over £10,000 to help fund research and stop ovarian cancer devastating lives. Here he shares his reasons why.

A selfie of Linda after she shaved her head
Linda's story

While Linda waited for confirmation of her diagnosis of ovarian cancer, she contacted the support line. Speaking to Val helped Linda to gain an understanding of what to expect, feel empowered but also have someone to talk to.

Liz Mitchell wearing a blue floral top smiling
Liz's story

A little over two years on from her diagnosis, Liz took part in the Ovarian Cancer Walk|Run in London with her daughter, Sarah, and raised over £1,000.

Jackie out walking in the countryside
Jackie's story

Jackie had been feeling unwell for a few weeks when one day she realised something was wrong. A quick GP referral for tests and scans meant Jackie’s ovarian cancer was diagnosed and treated at stage I and her womb cancer was also found.

Diane out fundraising in her local community, holding a collection tin and Target Ovarian Cancer posters and leaflets
Diane's story

Diane has shared her story with MPs, campaigned in her local community and will not stop working towards a future where there is increased awareness of ovarian cancer.