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| Debbie Hackett |
Centerville - If
you’re seeing teal ribbons around trees and lamp posts in Western New York this
month, it’s all a part of “Turn the Towns Teal” – a national volunteer campaign
to raise awareness among women AND men about ovarian cancer, its subtle symptoms
and risk factors.
Volunteers in all 50 states as well as in Canada &
Bermuda tie biodegradable Teal ribbons (made in the USA!) in their towns, at
their businesses, places of worship, and neighborhoods as well as on their
private residences. They also distribute symptom cards and use other materials
to increase ovarian cancer awareness. This all occurs in September which is
National Ovarian Cancer Awareness month.
Local businesswoman Debbie Hackett of Centerville was
diagnosed with this deadly disease in November 2017. While undergoing
treatment, she has dedicated herself to raising awareness in our area and has
brought the “Turn the Towns Teal” project to Franklinville and Lime Lake in
Cattaraugus County; Angelica, Fillmore, and Friendship in Allegany County;
Arcade in Wyoming County; and Holland In Erie County.
Debbie, says, “A Pap test does NOT detect ovarian cancer. If
you or a woman you know experiences one or more of the following symptoms for
ten days to two weeks, consult your gynecologist, physician, or preferably a
gynecological oncologist.”
Potential Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
• Bloating
• Pelvic or
abdominal pain
• Vague but
persistent gastrointestinal upsets such as gas, nausea, or indigestion
• Difficulty
eating OR feeling full quickly
• Urinary
symptoms (urgency or frequency)
• Unexplained
changes in bowel habits
• Unexplained
weight gain/loss
• Ongoing
unusual fatigue
• Back Pain
• Menstrual
changes
• Pain during
intimacy
Like many diseases, there are risk factors for ovarian
cancer as well, putting women with these indicators into a higher risk
category.
• Genetic
predisposition (BRCA1/BRCA2 gene)
• Personal or
family history of breast, ovarian or colon cancer
• Increasing
age
• Reproductive
history and infertility
• Hormone
replacement therapy
Debbie concludes, “Talking with other women going through
treatment, and with survivors, is an amazing healing opportunity. Whether
you’re a warrior like me, a survivor, or just a person who loves the women in
your life, tell every amazing lady you know that I’m looking for OV-CA (ovarian
cancer) women in Allegany, Cattaraugus and Wyoming counties to get an official
local support group started. Reach out to me today at 585-322-2394 or email
debhackett2394@gmail.com. And thanks to my wonderful friends in each of the
“Turn the Towns Teal” communities. None of this could have happened without
them.”
For more information, consult your health care professional
and visit:
