Cancer touches us all, and I'm determined to make a meaningful impact to the ongoing fight.

Most of us never imagine ourselves as cancer patients and survivors. I certainly never imagined I'd get to wear that label in my 30s. Without a family history of ovarian cancer, or common genetic mutations for breast or ovarian cancer, my chances of getting this type of cancer were slim to none. I ended up having a 12.5 pound tumor (in what used to be my ovary) that filled up my entire abdominal cavity, and I ended up with a rare form of ovarian cancer.

All of us will be affected by cancer in some way, if it hasn't already -- we all know someone who has battled cancer. Too many lose the fight too young. I personally know too many friends and loved ones who are no longer here to share their stories and advocate for others.

I am so grateful to have had the most amazing team. Thank you to Courtney Strayer and Dr. Bristow at UCI Health for helping save my life. As a result, I'm here to advocate for and remember those who are no longer with us.

The majority of ovarian cancer patients never survive their diagnosis to share their story. I am beyond grateful to be able to continue to live my life, and I am here because of early detection, self-advocacy, and an amazing group of supporters and medical professionals. I know I'm lucky, but I want to make sure more of us can get the medical attention we need before it's too late.

Join us in the fight by contributing what you can, signing up to walk/run/ride, and keep spreading the word! You can help make a difference.

When you donate toward my fundraiser, 100% of every dollar directly fuels projects (for all types of cancer) striving to save lives through innovative prevention, treatments and cures.

Together, let's shape the future of cancer care and bring hope to those who need it most!