Tell 'em Keyva

Facts from our discussion with the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition:

1. People born with ovaries are at risk. (ex. 1 year old on record with rare form of Ovarian Cancer) listen to your babies when they say they are in pain and are not eating.

2. Genetics - Men can pass the ovarian cancer gene down to their daughters. This conversation very much applies to men.

3. There is no test for Ovarian Cancer. Often this illness is caught in late stages because your PAP SMEAR CANNOT DETECT IT.

4. The symptoms are bloating, pelvic/abdominal pain, fatigue, and trouble eating…very typical. Be vigilant and let your provider know about symptoms lasting more than 3 weeks.

5. Work with your family to compile a localized family history including diagnosis, age, symptoms, and any other information that might be useful for your loved ones.

I color outside of the lines on purpose because the politeless, order, and tranquility that people want me to abide by is the noose that kills my people, my culture, my comfortability, my survival, and my hope.