Interview
1: What is your connection to ovarian cancer and OCAOSW? One of my daughters was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer at age 28. A mutual friend immediately connected me with Diane O'Connor of OCAOSW. Diane provided invaluable emotional support and guidance as we made our way through surgery, treatment and the side effects of chemotherapy.
2: What is your biggest hope with regard to this disease? Be it a personalized immunotherapy vaccine or new chemotherapy drug; I fervently hope for a break-through in the treatment of ovarian cancer. I also understand the pivotal role early detection plays in identifying and treating ovarian cancer. Finally, I believe all women deserve access to surgery and chemotherapy according to clinical guidelines established for treatment of ovarian cancer.
3: What does OCAOSW do for our community that makes it unique? OCAOSW programs are essential to women coping with ovarian cancer. OCAOSW provides support groups, medical seminars and networking opportunities for survivors and their families. In addition, the acclaimed Survivors Teaching Students program focuses on alerting medical professionals to symptoms of the disease.
4: What are your proudest achievements in life? Or what brings you the greatest joy? My family means the most to me. I have three adult children, one stupendous daughter in-law, two grandchildren and a beloved husband. As a lifelong resident of Portland, I have been fortunate to work or volunteer for a number of local non-profits. I hope I have contributed to the well being of my community along the way.
5: What do you like to do in your spare time? I like to walk with friends, practice yoga, visit Oregon wineries and read.
6: Tell me something about you that most other people don't know about you? I am a first generation American. My parents emigrated from Europe to America after WWII. Eventually my Oma (grandmother) also moved to Portland. I hope to visit Berlin, my father's birthplace.