Maureen Wagner, Chattanooga, TN (age 36): In my late twenties, I began to experience bloating, pain and swelling in my abdomen. These symptoms persisted for years. At age 32, I became concerned about infertility and thought my symptoms were related. After seeing four different doctors and internists who attributed my symptoms to pelvic inflammatory disease and GI upset, I finally insisted on a rectovaginal examination. The doctor also ordered an ultrasound and uncovered a massive cyst on my right ovary. The good news is I found out I was six weeks pregnant with my daughter, who is my saving grace and helped me to cope with the difficult times ahead.

After I had recovered from giving birth, the doctor removed the ovarian cyst and my right fallopian tube. During this time, I returned to work as a local radio host and development manager for National Public Radio in Memphis. On my second day back from maternity leave, my OB/GYN told me the cyst was malignant and I needed to see an oncologist for a biopsy.

The biopsy revealed ovarian cancer had spread to my lymph nodes -- stage IIIC ovarian cancer. I underwent staging surgery and a complete hysterectomy and received chemotherapy while working full-time. Due to the eight rounds of three different chemo drugs as part of a clinical trial, I lost my hair from head to toe, suffered unbearable fatigue and battled anemia. Family members, friends and co-workers helped care for my infant daughter.

I have now been cancer-free since December, 2002, and still see my GYN/Oncologist every three months. In 2004, I became Vice President for Corporate Relations for the Chattanooga PBS Station, WTCI. In addition to the joy of watching my daughter grow up, I diligently raise funds to support educational television on PBS and volunteer passionately to raise awareness about ovarian cancer. I encourage all patients and their families to seek the information and support they need and to never give up.

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