Halloween is just days away.

My sister’s favorite holiday.

She liked to be scared (unlike me).

It was all fun and games until the fear became personal.

My sister, Tammy, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in April of 2008, and lost her struggle just days after her favorite holiday on November 2, 2019.

In her honor, at this time of year, I write about the warning signs of this disease.

She’d be happy knowing her story might help someone avoid their own scary story.

Please share this post with all the women in your life.

Ovarian cancer has occurred in women as young as 11. (That’s extremely rare, though.)

Ovarian Cancer Symptoms

These symptoms don’t arrive with lots of fanfare.

They sneak up, quietly whispering.

They can also be signs of other cancers or even of benign illnesses.

But if you have any of these, please see your doctor.

Please.

Bloating: Swelling in the lower pelvis or abdomen.

Your clothes may feel tighter around your waist.

Abdominal, Back or Pelvic Pain: Pain in the abdomen, lower back or pelvis. (Tammy felt pain in her abdomen when she drove over speed bumps.)

Trouble Eating or Feeling Full Quickly: Loss of appetite or feeling full after eating few bites.

Urinary Frequency: Feeling the need to urinate more frequently.

Fatigue: Feeling more tired than usual and more frequently.

Menstrual Changes: Changes to your monthly cycle, including heavier bleeding or discharge.

Pain During Sex

Upset Stomach, Heartburn, Constipation: This can include diarrhea or changes in bowel habits, such as urgency or pain.

If you experience any of these symptoms for two weeks, please contact your physician.

It may or may not be anything scary.

Happy Halloween from Tammy and Gail.

Until next time,

~Gail

Countdown: 10 weeks left of 2024

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