Annabel Hill

I am raising funds for Ovacome and would love your help too !  

By making a donation you will help Ovacome offer a lifeline to support those affected by ovarian cancer in their time of need.

This September, during Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month, I'll be one of twelve models on the Touch of Teal catwalk. It is an annual awareness-raising fashion show that helps to shine a powerful light on often-missed symptoms of ovarian cancer and inspire early detection.  Cancer doesn’t have to define who we are or what we can achieve. Preparing for Touch of Teal with eleven other inspiring ladies has brought laughter, joy, purpose and collective hope for the future - my additional hope is that we can create awareness of the symptoms of ovarian cancer and inspire others through our stories. At Touch of Teal we’ll probably be wearing heels, possibly emotional, and definitely very proud !!  

My Story:

I was diagnosed with Stage 3C High Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer (HGSOC) in February 2024. I didn’t have any of the classic BEAT symptoms, have a very healthy lifestyle and probably wouldn’t be considered as an obvious risk for ovarian cancer.  Having had breast cancer in 2011, I certainly didn’t think I would have another experience of a major cancer in my lifetime! So, when I experienced a small niggling pain in my lower left abdomen, I wasn’t expecting anything too serious. Unfortunately, my GP was not particularly proactive, so I will be forever grateful that I know my own body and realised something was not right. I paid for a private blood test which showed my CA125 level was 780 (normal is less than 35), and realised that this fast-growing aggressive cancer had to be dealt with immediately before it could spread further. 

After an eight hour major "debulking" surgery and completing chemotherapy in October 2024, I am now classed as NED (no evidence of disease). Currently I'm on maintenance treatment with daily "chemo-lite" tablets and 3 weekly infusions to support my immune system. My previous scare with cancer showed me how truly lucky I am with my wonderful, supportive husband, family and friends. This time has proved no different and I have sometimes been overwhelmed with the kindness and help I have been given. My daughter has been an incredible support for me with research and being involved with various patient forums on my behalf, and has even volunteered with Ovacome in the office. The huge relief we both felt when the negative results came back from the BRCA gene testing was immense and a huge cause for celebration. 

The main change in my lifestyle is how tired I now become and, as a normally very active, busy person, this has greatly impacted me and my wellbeing. My surgery scar has healed neatly, and although my body has changed considerably, I am very grateful for what I am still capable of doing physically and hope for a return to more normal energy levels once treatment is finally over. 

I have always tried to cultivate a positive attitude and when my consultant said it was my secret weapon in beating ovarian cancer, I knew it was definitely the way to proceed!! 

Why Donate ?

Please consider giving a  donation if you are able, even small amounts add up and are very welcome!!  Ovacome is a lifeline for those of us with ovarian cancer, reduces isolation, provides expert information, promotes understanding of ovarian cancer and its symptoms, and supports those affected by it in their time of need. Twenty ladies are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each day in the UK, and 8 of them will be so poorly that they go to A&E before diagnosis, without realising that their symptoms are caused by ovarian cancer.   Early diagnosis can save lives !!

It would mean a lot to me if you could also raise awareness and share my fundraising page with your friends, family, colleagues and on your social media now and throughout September, Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month.

Thank you — for reading, sharing, donating, and being your wonderful selves.  I look forward to seeing many friends old and new when I strut my stuff on the catwalk    ღஐƸ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒஐღ