Anne Marie Spehar

“I was experiencing frequent abdominal bloating, irregular periods and cramping. I sought medical attention numerous times without answers, until one doctor finally asked about my family history. My mother and other family members had Uterine Cancer, and then genetic testing found I had a genetic condition called Lynch Syndrome MSH6. A uterine ultrasound showed a large tumor on my left ovary and surgery was quickly scheduled. During the surgery, a biopsy of the tumor came back as Clear Cell Carcinoma. The surgeons completed the full debulking procedure and removed all my lymph nodes. I was diagnosed as stage 1A Clear Cell Ovarian Cancer. Because I was diagnosed at such an early stage, I did not undergo chemo. Still the recovery from the radical debulking was a long process with pelvic floor therapy as well as going through surgical menopause.  

Through my diagnosis and treatment, I learned to always be an advocate for myself. If you think something is wrong, keep asking questions until you get an answer.”