Teal Ribbons Bring Awareness to Ovarian Cancer in Lexington

In the charming city of Lexington, a heartfelt initiative is underway as community members come together to shine a light on a crucial health issue: ovarian cancer. On a sunny Saturday morning, volunteers from the Bluegrass Ovarian Cancer Support organization were busy putting up teal ribbons throughout downtown Lexington. In doing so, they hoped to raise much-needed awareness about this often-overlooked disease.

According to the American Cancer Society, a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer is about 1 in 87. Although it may seem like a relatively low probability, the realities are striking: ovarian cancer claims more lives than all other gynecologic cancers combined. One of the main reasons for this alarming statistic is that the symptoms can be quite subtle and are often confused with common, everyday ailments.

Rose Lewis, the secretary of Bluegrass Ovarian Cancer Support, emphasizes how vital it is to educate people about the symptoms. “It’s important to be able to tell other people what to look for, or what not, so that we can decrease the incidence of ovarian cancer,” she shares. Symptoms to watch out for include persistent bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, and urinary issues like urgency or more frequent trips to the bathroom. You should definitely consult a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms more than twelve times a month.

Lewis is no stranger to the struggle that comes with ovarian cancer; she’s a seven-year survivor herself. Together with her team, she spent the day tying up ribbons that symbolize hope and awareness, not only in Lexington but also in neighboring towns like Georgetown, Winchester, and Versailles. They even placed bows at most hospitals in the area, spreading the message far and wide.

Another dedicated participant is Boone Logan, who recalls the first time he saw the teal ribbons back in 2016 while he was taking his wife Eunice to her treatment at UK’s Markey Cancer Center. “I looked over at Eunice, and she was crying,” he says. “I asked her what was wrong, and she told me it was the bows. She said, ‘Somebody cares that I have this blankety-blank disease.’” Eunice battled cancer for 33 months before she passed away, but Boone is determined to carry on her legacy by turning Lexington teal, hoping that others will feel the same sense of support that Eunice did.

Boone mentions, “I hope that some have the same reaction that she did, and understand that they are not alone in this fight.” It’s this shared passion and commitment to raising awareness that fuels the efforts of everyone involved.

In line with this commitment to community health, UK’s Markey Cancer Center runs a free screening program for ovarian cancer. This initiative is available for women over the age of 25 who have a family history of ovarian cancer or other genetic factors. Women over the age of 50 can also take advantage of this no-cost service. For those curious about their eligibility or wanting more information, reaching out to the Markey Cancer Center is a great first step.

As these ribbons adorn tree trunks, lampposts, and buildings, they serve as a reminder that awareness and education about ovarian cancer can literally save lives. The initiative not only encourages women to be vigilant about their health but also fosters a sense of community solidarity. “We try to raise awareness, but we also support those people with our support group,” Lewis adds, highlighting the dual mission of both awareness and support.

While some may look at the ribbons and merely see a splash of teal in the urban landscape, for many, it represents a profound message. It’s about community, resilience, and above all, hope. Whether you will walk past the ribbons in Lexington or see them online, remember that taking action—whether it’s sharing what you’ve learned or just being an ear to listen—can make a world of difference.

As this initiative continues to unfold, we can only hope that stories like Boone’s and Rose’s resonate further, sparking conversations about this often-silent disease. With awareness comes knowledge and empowerment. If you or someone you know believes they may be affected, do not hesitate to seek the guidance of a knowledgeable healthcare provider.

In the battle against ovarian cancer, it’s the little things, like a simple ribbon, that can create a significant impact. Together, as a community, we can make a difference.