In the near future, I will join my colleagues Sen. Pennycuick, Rep. Marcell, and Rep. Hogan to introduce a resolution designating the month of September 2026 as “Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month” in the Commonwealth.

The National Cancer Institute estimates over 21,000 women will receive a new diagnosis of ovarian cancer, and over 12,000 will sadly die from the terrible disease in 2026.

According to the American Cancer Society, ovarian cancer ranks sixth in cancer deaths among women and has the highest mortality rate among gynecological cancers. A woman's risk of receiving an ovarian cancer diagnosis during her lifetime is about 1 in 91. Her lifetime chance of dying from ovarian cancer is about 1 in 143. The cancer is particularly prevalent in older women, with about half of all women diagnosed being aged 63 or older.

Unfortunately, ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect until reaching advanced stages. In some cases, the disease may not have noticeable symptoms, but may be indicated by unassuming signs such as bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, change in appetite, frequent urination, and gastrointestinal issues, among others.

Over the years, many constituents have reached out regarding this critical opportunity to build awareness around ovarian cancer. One such constituent, Jay Ferraro, shared the story of his beloved wife, Barbara, who passed away from ovarian cancer on February 20, 2023. Jay and his children started the Barbara T. Foundation in her honor. The nonprofit focuses 100% of its efforts on preventing, detecting, and curing ovarian cancer by pursuing the most urgent pathways to a breakthrough.

We ask that you join us in co-sponsoring this resolution to raise awareness of ovarian cancer risk and to express your support for much-needed scientific study and research of this horrible disease.