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Hundreds gathered at North Glenmore Park in Calgary for an ovarian cancer walk, honoring survivors and victims while raising funds for research into the deadly disease.
Hundreds of people gathered at North Glenmore Park in Calgary on a Sunday morning to raise awareness and funds for ovarian cancer. The event brought together survivors, patients, and families remembering loved ones lost to the disease.
Ovarian Cancer Statistics Highlight Urgency
Ovarian Cancer Canada CEO Tania Vrionis said about 3,100 Canadians are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year, and there has been no significant improvement in life expectancy.
She noted that ovarian cancer is the deadliest gynecologic cancer, with a survival rate of only about 44 per cent. If a woman is diagnosed today, less than half are expected to live another five years.
Vrionis emphasized that women's health research and funding has been underfunded for decades. She said there is no screening test for ovarian cancer, which often leads to late-stage detection when it is harder to treat.
Community Support and Personal Stories
Among the walkers were hundreds wearing Team Jenna shirts, forming the largest team in the country. They honored Jenna Sauer, a ringette player who died of ovarian cancer nine years ago at age 18.
Her father, Leigh Sauer, described the day as emotional. He said it is sad and they miss Jenna, but it is great to see everyone come out. He added that the love and support means so much.
Sauer recalled seeing a young woman Jenna played ringette with when she was seven years old. They just found out about the walk this year and came out to support.
Tiffany Morin, who is living with ovarian cancer, said she was diagnosed with a rare form eight years ago. She has been through five surgeries, chemotherapy, and nine different treatments, yet still has not found the right treatment for her type of cancer.
Morin expressed a desire for a well-researched treatment so she can continue to live.
Premier Attends, Government Promises Action
Premier Danielle Smith attended the walk and said the issue is personal because her mother-in-law died of ovarian cancer.
In a speech, Smith thanked organizations like Ovarian Cancer Canada and outlined steps the Alberta government is taking to improve cancer care. She said the aim is to cut wait times in half over the next 10 years by investing in equipment, facilities, and medical professionals, and by expanding access to diagnostic imaging and providing clearer pathways to care.
Smith pointed to an $800-million partnership with Siemens Healthineers announced last year. She said as Siemens replaces its equipment, they will use AI tools to get diagnoses faster. The goal is to detect cancers within two hours rather than two weeks, and connect people with care immediately.
The walk served as a powerful reminder of the importance of community and continued research in the fight against ovarian cancer.
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