Western suburbs State MPs Jill Hennessy, Tim Pallas and Wade Noonan today held a “Morning Teal” event at Point Cook Community Centre, to lend their support to Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

The campaign to convert February into a teal-coloured awareness drive is led by Ovarian Cancer Australia, an organisation which provides support, education, advocacy and research funding to ensure that every Australian woman knows the symptoms of ovarian cancer and everyone affected by ovarian cancer feels personally supported and has access to and information about the best treatment and research.

“Events like this are vital to raise awareness of how important it is that women take time out to pay attention to their own health,” Teal host, Ms Hennessy said.

“One of the most difficult things with this type of cancer is that it is difficult to detect in its early stages, so we need to raise awareness about the symptoms and the need to see a doctor if ever you experience any changes that worry you.”

“Our region is over-represented for cancer sufferers, and we have a high incidence of ovarian cancer as well,” Ms Hennessy said.

“Attendees were fortunate to be able to hear the story of one family affected by ovarian cancer, with Point Cook local John Robertson telling the story of his wife, Deborah’s diagnosis and treatment,” Ms Hennessy said.

“Mr Robertson spoke about how his family had coped with the experience, and also emphasised the need to get any unusual changes that last too long checked by a doctor,” Ms Hennessy said.

“Any niggle that seems to be lasting too long, get it checked – it doesn’t make you a sook. Deborah was lucky because she went to the doctor, and has now been clear for two years,” Mr Robertson said. 

Deborah will be shaving her head to promote ovarian cancer awareness on 29 February.

The event was well attended raising over $350 for ovarian cancer research.

“I am very proud to be able to lend my support such an important issue which
affects so many families in our community,” said Tarneit MP Tim Pallas.

 “I am pleased that so many people are here to help raise awareness about ovarian
cancer,” said Williamstown MP, Wade Noonan. “Having lost one of my neighbours to ovarian cancer late last year, I think any activity to help raise awareness is worth supporting.”

Further information on ovarian cancer, its symptoms and treatment, can be found on the Ovarian Cancer Australia website at www.ovariancancer.net.au, or by calling 1300 660 334.