Like some of you, I didn't know much about ovarian cancer. It was one of those diseases that other people got and died from. Not me or anyone I know. That is, until a close friend of mine, Corey Wilkins, lost his mother to this dreadful disease. As a person with chronic health issues, her death really hit home for me and it made me want to learn more. 

You see, Stephanie Wilkins was a strong, vibrant woman with a youthful zest for life. Raising a son alone and working full time was no easy feat but you would never hear a complaint. She was the type of woman who took life by the horns and never let anything slow her down. And yet, at age 48, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Within months, the disease would claim her life. Family and friends were left wondering, could this have been prevented?

 The sad answer is probably not. Although Stephanie was sick for more than a year and visited the hospital often, her efforts were in vain. Her mysterious symptoms could have been a number of things and they stumped her doctors until it was too late. When the culprit was finally identified, Stephanie's ovarian cancer was already at stage 3. 

The truth of the matter is, just 20% of all ovarian cancers are diagnosed at stage 1 or 2, when they can be effectively treated. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 15,000 women will lose their battle with this disease. This year alone. And that's because there is no definitive test for ovarian cancer and so few women know what symptoms to look for and if they are at risk.

Staggering numbers like these are disheartening but they need not remain reality. You can help fund the research that will find better screening methods and eventually a cure. In honor of Stephanie Wilkins, her friends and family and I are organizing a fundraiser called Walk and Remember. On September 6, 2008, participants are welcome to join us at Branch Brook Park in Newark, New Jersey for a 5k walk around the park. The walk will be followed by a free health expo where you can get more information on currently available screening methods and treatment options as well as meet other people who want to see this disease eradicated.  

Your registration fee of only $25 is more than just a thoughtful gesture. It is an investment in the future of every woman you know. If not for Stephanie, do it for the special women in your life. Moms. Sisters. Wives. Daughters.  Me ;)

For more information about the walk, to register and ways you can help, please visit our website at http://www.walkandremember.com .

Thank you all for helping me out with this cause that is dear to my heart.

 PS: $25 out of your price range? No worries. Give what you can. Every little bit helps.