National Ovarian Cancer Coalition’s local chapter to hold ‘Walk to Break the Silence’

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The Rhode Island Chapter of the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) will hold its annual “Walk to Break the Silence on Ovarian Cancer” at the Temple to Music at Roger Williams Park on Sunday, Sept. 27.

The day’s festivities kick off with an opening ceremony at 9:30 a.m., and on-site registration begins at 8 a.m. Local comedian Frank O’Donnell will serve as host and emcee the event.

Now in its eighth year, the walk, which attracts more than 1,000 participants annually, serves to raise awareness of ovarian cancer while celebrating survivors and remembering those lost to the disease. In addition to the walk, this year’s event will include a 5K run, a Survivor Tent, vendors and more.

Donations raised through the event will help fund ovarian cancer education and awareness initiatives, as well as programs designed to improve the quality of life for those affected by the disease. After last year’s walk generated $136,000, a goal has been set to raise $150,000 in 2015.

“Every woman – our mothers, sisters, relatives and friends – are at risk of ovarian cancer, which is the deadliest of all gynecologic cancers,” said Donna Ricci, president of the Rhode Island Chapter of the NOCC.

“Sadly, there is currently no early detection test for ovarian cancer, so educating our community about its early signs is one of the most important things we can do to increase awareness.”

According to research, one in 71 women will develop ovarian cancer in their lifetime, and approximately 15,000 die annually from the disease. While most cases are diagnosed in the later stages when a patient’s prognosis is poor, if detected and treated early when the cancer is still confined to the ovary, the five-year survival rate is more than 90 percent.

The Rhode Island Chapter of the NOCC was established in 2007 in honor of Jessica Morris who was diagnosed at the age of 18 with Stage IIIC ovarian cancer. Jessica’s goal was to raise awareness about this horrific disease, forming the Chapter with family and friends. At the age of 20, Jessica lost her courageous battle with ovarian cancer in August 2008.

Those interested in participating in the walk or run may register online through midnight on Sept. 22; on-site registration will also be available on the day of the event. Additionally, donations may be made through the event’s website in support of a participating team or in memory of a loved one. Gifts are also accepted via check sent to: NOCC Rhode Island Chapter, P.O. Box 20381, Cranston, RI 02920.

For additional information or questions, please contact Ricci at RhodeIsland@ovarian.org or 837-1981.

The 2015 “Walk to Break the Silence on Ovarian Cancer” is made possible thanks to generous support from sponsors BankRI, East Commerce Solutions, and Helomics Corporation.

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