Day 244: Turned the Town Teal

September is ovarian cancer awareness month. And the ladies with the local chapter known as Ovarian Cancer TOGETHER are doing just that...spreading awareness. It all started a few days ago, when the iconic Cable Bridge had, for the first time, changed the color of lights on the bridge to teal. Each evening in September, when the bridges lights illuminate, those in sight will be reminded that this month we fight a bit harder for those fighting this horrible cancer. Click here for more on the local chapter.

(Photo credit: Tri-City Herald)

Tonight, it was Gesa Stadium's chance to turn teal. Several ladies from the chapter and a group of veterans on motorcycles arrived early at the stadium to decorate with teal balloons, ribbons and bows wherever the eye could see. While setting up their table seen below, I had the chance to speak to a few women who have either fought ovarian cancer or are fighting and donate a few dollars to their organization. I had an incredible conversation with them talking about their upcoming plans for the month and mainly about the disease itself. I learned so much, but the one fact that struck me the most is there is a cure for this cancer if caught early enough. So, these women are largely focusing on spreading awareness of the symptoms and supporting those affected by ovarian cancer.  

President and Founder of the organization, Kay Kerbyson, informed me that ovarian cancer is unfortunately being found in younger women. Some even as young as 20. In past years, it has commonly been found in women in their 40's, but now young ladies need to be aware of the symptoms as well. She also mentioned that the survival rate is just around 95% if found early enough. 

The symptoms can include; bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating, and urinary frequency. 

                                        

Below is a list of several other places where they are "tealing the Tri-Cities" and spreading awareness. 

• September 2 @ 9:00AM- Teal a Tree in Kennewick (Meet @ Washington & Kennewick Ave.)
• Septermber 3 @ 10:00AM- Teal a Tree in Richland (Meet @ John Dam Plaza)
• September 7- Walmart in Richland
• September 7 @ 2:00PM- Healed with a Kiss (Hedges Family Estate Winery)
• September 20- Yoke's in Kennewick

Lastly, I just wanted to mention that 2 out of 3 women diagnosed with ovarian cancer will die. This could be preventable if you listen to your body and know the symptoms. Show you care, be aware. 

God bless,

Kailee