Bucks County Mom, Cancer Survivor Raising Awareness For Ovarian Cancer
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- It's a cancer that most women fear, Ovarian. Often called the silent killer. This weekend thousands will gather in Philly for an annual Run/Walk to Break the Silence, including one Bucks County mom who knows Ovarian Cancer all too well.
Ovarian cancer usually strikes older women, but it can happen anytime. This weekend the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition is having its annual event here and in many other cities. The aim is to take 150 million steps across the country in celebration, in support of people fighting ovarian cancer.
Forty-one-year-old Rachel Frazier is making teal ribbons with her two children to raise awareness about ovarian cancer. A cancer she's had twice now, that nearly took away her ability to have children.
"I've always wanted to be a mom, and they light up my life every day and they're a reminder that miracles happen," explained Rachael Frazier.
First diagnosed at age 26, Rachel endured chemotherapy and the removal of one ovary. Then against all odds, she got pregnant with her first son Jake, 9 years ago. Her Daughter Lilly came two years later.
"That is just the meaning of life right there, that is a miracle, it's everything I could ever hope for," gushed Frazier. "It was a tough battle, but I beat it and I didn't think it would ever come back," she added.
But it did. Two years ago Rachel had a second battle with ovarian cancer, followed by more surgery and chemo.
"It was an awful experience," Rachel said. "I never had any symptoms at all, nothing, nothing." That's why it's called the silent killer.
Symptoms of ovarian cancer can be vague. Both times, Rachel's cancer was found in routine gynecological appointments.
Now she's on a mission, with the teal ribbons and the upcoming Run/Walk to Break the Silence coming up on September 10.
"So many people do not get checked, do not follow up with their yearly appointments," she explained. "You're just never too young and you're never too old and I want to get the word out how important it is to feel and be in touch with your body." That's because when diagnosed and treated early, the five year survival rate for ovarian cancer is over 90 percent.
The Run/Walk that's happening this Saturday will start at Memorial Hall in Fairmount park.
Click here for more information on the upcoming Run/Walk to Break the Silence.
