Two decades of supporting women with ovarian cancer has been marked in the Australian Parliament with a special event hearing from women fighting the disease during Ovarian Cancer Awareness month.
Attended by Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman, who has been a strong advocate for funding, the event on February 16 attracted the Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, and Leader of the Opposition, Anthony Albanese.
"According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, there were more than 1500 women diagnosed with ovarian cancer in Australia in 2020," said Ms Templeman.
"It's a brutal disease, being the deadliest yet most underfunded female cancer in Australia, with only 46 per cent of women diagnosed surviving past five years.
"But in its 20th year, Ovarian Cancer Australia tells us that researchers are closer to a breakthrough than ever before.
"On February 16, we held the annual event in Parliament House for Teal Ribbon Day (February 24), featuring Sydney-sider Caitlin Delaney, who shared her personal and emotional story of her journey with ovarian cancer.
"It's thanks to women like Caitlin that we keep up the pressure for more funding for research and support for ovarian cancer, and I thanked her for her efforts.
"Sadly, my friend Jill Emberson, who spoke to this audience two years ago, has died of her illness. But each of them leaves a powerful legacy that is gradually bringing awareness.
"The government announced an extra $1 million in funding on the day, which is a small but welcome step to continue nursing support for women being treated for this disease.
"I would urge all women to be aware of the symptoms of ovarian cancer, and to visit their GP if they are worried. Comprehensive information can be found on the Ovarian Cancer Australia website at www.ovariancancer.net.au.
"Teal Ribbon Giving Day is also coming up on February 24, where every dollar donated will be matched by Ovarian Cancer Australia's generous partners, meaning $3 will go towards supporting women with ovarian cancer."
People make a donation by visiting www.charidy.com/oca.
The Ovarian Cancer Australia Helpline is available for support on 1300 660 334.
