World Ovarian Cancer Day is a global initiative to raise awareness about ovarian cancer, a disease affecting millions of women worldwide. World Ovarian Cancer Day is commemorated every year on 8 May.
Ovarian cancer is often referred to as the ‘silent killer’ because its symptoms can be vague and easily overlooked. In this article, we pay tribute to five courageous celebrities who have fought ovarian cancer, using their experiences to raise awareness and inspire hope for others facing this devastating diagnosis.
Utada Hikaru
The renowned Japanese-American singer-songwriter, Utada Hikaru, was reported in 2002 that she had been diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She underwent surgery and treatment to combat the disease and has since become an advocate for cancer awareness. Utada’s openness about her battle with ovarian cancer has helped shed light on the disease and the importance of early detection.
Kathy Bates
Doctors diagnosed Academy Award-winning actress Kathy Bates with ovarian cancer in 2003.
“That was a surprise to me,” she says. Bates didn’t know at that time that a family history of breast cancer also increases the risk of ovarian cancer.
She underwent successful treatment and has since become a fierce advocate for ovarian cancer awareness. In 2012, she also battled and overcame breast cancer, further cementing her role as a symbol of strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
Cobie Smulders
Best known for her roles in “How I Met Your Mother” and the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Canadian actress Cobie Smulders was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at just 25 years old.
After multiple surgeries and a long road to recovery, Smulders successfully beat the disease. She has since used her platform to raise awareness and encourage women to be proactive about their health.
Sharon Osbourne
TV personality, music manager, and wife of rock legend Ozzy Osbourne, Sharon Osbourne received a diagnosis of stage III colon cancer in 2002. Subsequently, after successful treatment, she founded the Sharon Osbourne Colon Cancer Program in Los Angeles.
Additionally, in 2012, Sharon revealed that she carried the BRCA1 gene mutation, putting her at high risk for ovarian cancer. Thus, she decided to undergo a preventive double mastectomy and oophorectomy, reducing her risk and raising awareness about the importance of genetic testing and preventive measures.
Manisha Koirala
Manisha Koirala is an accomplished Nepali actress. Doctors diagnosed Manisha with ovarian cancer in 2012. After a long fight, they declared her cancer-free by 2015. She spent six months in the US for her treatment. In 2018, Manisha said the diagnosis and subsequent treatment changed her as a person.
“When I came out at the other end, if there was anything joyful, I would make the most of that moment. I literally started seeing joy in small things like walking on the grass, the breeze on my face, looking out of my bed at the sky and clouds, sunsets and sunrises — I started noticing small things, because tomorrow I didn’t know whether I would be alive to see it,” she said.
Koirala has since become an advocate for cancer awareness. She shares her journey and inspires others to stay hopeful and resilient in the face of adversity.
Conclusion: Celebrities Inspiring Hope and Awareness
These five brave women are just a few examples of the many who have faced ovarian cancer head-on. Their stories serve as powerful reminders of the importance of raising awareness, funding research, and supporting those affected by ovarian cancer. Therefore, on World Ovarian Cancer Day, let their stories serve as inspiration for those suffering in their journey.
