Mary Lakey’s diagnosis with ovarian cancer, almost three years ago, has motivated her to become involved in raising funds for the Mater. Following surgery and treatment for cancer, Mary made the decision to raise funds to support ovarian cancer research at the Mater Medical Research Institute (MMRI).
“Ovarian cancer is called the silent killer with good reason,” said Mary. “It really is an insidious disease, my symptoms could have related to almost anything.”
Each year in Australia 1,500 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer and 850 die of the disease. Unfortunately, there is little knowledge of what causes ovarian cancer and no screening test that detects it in its early stages.
Researchers at the MMRI are researching the development of a simple blood test to screen for ovarian cancer and identify women who need further testing. According to Associate Professor Mike McGuckin from the MMRI, if scientists are able to develop a screening test that picks up the cancer at stage one, when it is restricted to the ovaries, there is a 90 per cent survival rate.
Mary’s journey began in 2004 when her early symptoms included fatigue, abdominal pain and loss of appetite. Despite multiple tests, doctors were unable to pinpoint the problem. Then doctors performed keyhole surgery where they found that one ovary had a small lump on it. “The surgeon removed the ovary and the fallopian tube,” said Mary.
“Three days later I received the dreaded call that I had cancer. I had two types of cancer, in three different areas in my abdomen. My doctor told me that I had a 50/50 chance of surviving the next five years.”
Mary underwent a radical hysterectomy and chemotherapy. “Doctors tell me that I shouldn’t be here, but I am. I have so much to thank my wonderful doctors for,” said Mary. “I have five children including two daughters, two daughter-in-laws and five granddaughters. They are the reason I am involved in raising funds for ovarian cancer research.”
Mary is an active member of the Mater Nursing and Midwifery Alumni and the Mater Past Nurses Association. Since deciding to raise funds for ovarian cancer research, Mary has held two movie nights, a race day, and a fashion parade and morning tea raising over $26,000.