a newsletter of... - Ovarian Cancer Research Fund

a newsletter of...
HOPE
Fall/Winter 2007
PHOTOCREDIT: JON SIMON
Chemo Today, Triathlon
Tomorrow: Triathlete
and Ovarian Cancer
Survivor MaryAnn Kobylka
Shares Her Story
BY NANCY ZAN
“You have to have hope. You have to take control.”
That’s the advice that 48-year-old MaryAnn
Kobylka, wife, mother, and four time triathlete has for
women battling with ovarian cancer.
A stay-at-home mother of two young boys,
David, aged 9, and Alex, aged 7, MaryAnn never
considered herself to be an athlete. And, she still
doesn’t. But what MaryAnn does believe in is—in
order to get through something difficult, you have
to take control. One way to take control is through
competing in a triathlon.
It was three years ago on a cold, clear
February day in Seattle, Washington when a message
from her gynecologist first brought news to MaryAnn
that she would have to begin on a courageous
journey that continues to this day.
“I remember walking the kids home from
school,” says MaryAnn. “I had had my annual
gynecologic exam, and when I came in the door, on
the answering machine was my gynecologist saying
‘give me a call.’ Then a second message from the
gynecologist saying ‘give me a call.’ Then a third
message from the gynecologist saying ‘give me a
call.” MaryAnn realized that something was wrong.
Her gynecologist recommended she have a
IN
THIS
ISSUE
hysterectomy. She
underwent surgery, and cancer
cells were detected. “I just remember crying,” said
MaryAnn, after tests indicated that she had stage 2C
ovarian cancer and would need at least six rounds of
Article continues on page 4
L’Oréal Paris’ Director of Strategic Philanthropy Seema Talwar, Jamie Boris,
Elizabeth Howard and L’Oréal Paris’ Vice President of External Affairs/ Strategic Philanthropy Michael Trese
OCRF Salutes L’Oréal Paris
for Their 10 Year Commitment
to Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian Cancer Research Fund and L’Oréal Paris proudly celebrated
their ten year partnership this fall. Over the past decade, L’Oréal Paris
has offered hope to thousands of women afflicted with ovarian cancer
by helping to raise $13 million to further research and raise public
awareness on a national level for OCRF.
Fully committed to the fight against ovarian cancer, L’Oréal Paris
has created far-reaching programs and fundraising initiatives to further
the cause of ovarian cancer research.
Over the past decade, they have created public service announcement campaigns featuring L’Oréal Paris spokespersons Andie
MacDowell and Milla Jovovich. The Color of Hope Makeup and
Jewelry Collection were designed to raise funds for OCRF, and special
Article continues on page 3
IN THIS ISSUE:
What’s It Like To Be A Gynecologic Oncologist? – p3
News From the Fundraising Front – p6
Super Saturday Celebrates its 10th Anniversary – p8
OCRF Awards $800,000 in Grant Money to Leading Researchers – p12
2
14 Pennsylvania Plaza, Suite 1400
New York, NY 10122
Tel: 212.268.1002
Toll-free: 800.873.9569
Fax: 212.947.5652
www.ocrf.org
Founded in Memory of Ann Schreiber
With Special Tribute to Liz Tilberis
(President, 1997-1999)
Board of Directors
Executive Board
Faith Kates Kogan
President
Sol Schreiber, Esq.
Founder & Co-Chair
Carmel J. Cohen, M.D.
Co-Chair
Peter R. Dottino, M.D.
Vice President
Edward Labaton, Esq.
Secretary
Donna B. Nadler
Treasurer
Andrew Tilberis
Sherry Jacobson
Members of the Board
Susan D. Bazaar
Susan Bershad, M.D.
Jacqueline Bianco
Anthony Broy
Joseph J. Campinell
Jeanette Chang
Nancy Davis
Andrew Feurstein
Susie Fragnoli
Michelle Gerson
Maria Gordian, M.D.
Mindy Gray
Carol Hamilton
John Hansbury, Esq.
Cindy Harrell-Horn
Sharon Haugh
June Jacobs
Tom Liebman
Dana Mark
Ylain Mayer
Mark D. Myslinski
Lyris A. Schonholz, M.D.
Judith Schwartz, M.D.
Robin Zarel
Laura D. Zemmel, Esq.
OCRF Staff
Elizabeth Howard
Jamie Boris
Craig Rosati
Katie Diamond
Julie Hazelip
Namitha Thanickal
Nancy Zan
Editor
Letter from
the CEO
I recall with a clarity that is all too real, the moment my
late husband called me to say: “I have prostate cancer.”
Our lives were changed from that moment on. We filled
our days with work, travel and joy, recognizing that every
day is a gift. The opportunity to work for the Ovarian
Cancer Research Fund to achieve the mission of finding a method of early detection
and ultimately a cure for ovary cancer gives me hope that through research we will
change the lives of thousands of women. Together, by raising our funding levels and
increasing research efforts, we will make a difference. Progress is being made.
In September, I traveled to Seattle for the Subaru Triathlon and had the
opportunity to meet MaryAnn Kobylka, an ovarian cancer survivor and four time
triathlete. As I stood shivering in the early morning mist, wrapped in a woolen shawl
and sipping a hot cup of Starbucks coffee, she was wearing a wet suit waiting to
dive into the lake for the first round of the triathlon. Strong, determined, and in great
shape, MaryAnn finished the race. On the tee-shirt underneath her wetsuit she had
written, “Chemo Friday, Triathlon Sunday.” Nancy Zan interviewed MaryAnn for our
newsletter and it is a story of hope. Across the country I continue to meet women
who are not only fighting ovarian cancer, but working to advocate, educate and raise
money for research so other women will benefit: courageous, empowered women.
Mitzi Perdue is a former syndicated columnist for Scripps Howard. She
recently moved to New York after the death of her husband Frank Perdue. Mrs.
Perdue wants to use her journalism skills to make a difference and volunteered to
write an article for our newsletter. She interviewed Dr. Andrew Berchuck, Chairman
of OCRF’s Scientific Advisory Committee and Director of Gynecologic Cancer
Research at Duke University. The Ovarian Cancer Research Fund’s Scientific Advisory
Committee is comprised of ten of the leading gynecologic oncologists in the United
States and through our funding grants we reach, in one way or another, most of the
researchers, scientists, institutions and doctors in the United States working to find
answers to solve the riddle of ovary cancer.
Working together we can make a difference. Working together we can raise
money to fund the research that will help us achieve the OCRF mission. I salute
our volunteers, our supporters and all of the individuals who work with us to make
a difference.
ELIZABETH HOWARD
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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What’s It Like To Be A
Gynecologic Oncologist?
BY MITZI PERDUE
If you’re reading this, you probably already know a lot about
ovarian cancer. Perhaps you or a loved one have been touched
by the disease. Perhaps you’ve been involved with fund raising
or in supporting ovarian cancer research. But what you may
not know is, what is it like to be a gynecologic oncologist?
What’s it like to be a man or woman on the front lines every
day, dealing with patients who have ovarian cancer? You might
think it would be depressing. If you were a doctor specializing
in ovarian cancer, when a woman with ovarian cancer first
comes into your office, you know that you’re about to deliver
one of life’s more difficult triple whammies.
In most cases, your new patient will go from ostensibly
good health in the not too distant past to knowing that she’s
got a life-threatening disease. In the next few days, she’ll have
her ovaries removed, and possibly sections of her bowel as
well. She may be hospitalized for a week or more, and after
that, she may be in for difficult and debilitating chemotherapy.
If you’re her doctor, how does this situation feel? Isn’t
it depressing, year after year, to have patients who are up
against so much bad news, so unexpectedly, and with such an
uncertain outcome?
Dr. Andrew Berchuck, Director of Gynecologic
Oncology at Duke University, has an unexpected answer to this
question. “For me,” he says, “it’s extremely rewarding.”
He knows, when an individual patient comes in, that he has
a powerful array of tools, many of them new, to help treat
her disease. However, even if a cure isn’t within reach, there’s
nevertheless a lot he can do to help give her more years, and
to make those years better.
Further, he knows that over time, a powerful
relationship will develop between him and his patient, as
together they work for the best outcome possible. And this
bond is not limited to his relationship with his patient. Berchuck
knows that the family members who accompany her on the
journey will also develop strong relationships with him and the
nurses on the team.
Unlike a lung cancer patient or a pancreatic cancer
patient, Berchuck is likely to be with his patient for many years
as opposed to a few months. He gets to use his knowledge,
skills and compassion “to do all that’s humanly possible” to
make those years as good as they can be.
However, treating the disease isn’t his only
satisfaction. He is also humbled by the willingness of his
patients to graciously help with his research by contributing
blood and samples of their cancer. Without the help of his
patients, Dr. Berchuck’s
research that seeks to
understand the role of
genetic susceptibility
in determining ovarian
cancer risk would not be
possible. His passion for
research is also reflected
in his commitment to
serving as head of the OCRF Scientific Advisory Committee.
If you were to talk with Berchuck, you’d sense that
there’s a modesty to him that would keep him from saying this
himself, but deep inside, he has to experience that profoundest
of satisfactions, knowing that he gets to make a positive
difference in people’s lives. His work isn’t just a job, and it
certainly isn’t a depressing one; it’s more like a gift.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1...
OCRF Salutes L’Oréal Paris
partnerships with five different Hearst women’s magazine ran
page and a half Q&As about ovarian cancer with a call to action for research.
This past September, a company-wide Ovarian Cancer
Awareness Week was dedicated to building awareness, compassion and commitment among L’Oréal Paris employees. One of
the days was the “Survivor Beauty Festival,” a day of pampering for ovarian cancer survivors at the L’Oréal Paris Salon. They
have also sponsored annual fundraising events in New York and
Los Angeles, including a cocktail party in LA on November 7,
2007 and a Legends Gala that is upcoming in 2008.
L’Oréal Paris has provided a significant amount of financial support towards OCRF and the ovarian cancer cause. They
have been instrumental in raising awareness to new levels and
have brought hope into the lives of ovarian cancer patients
across the country.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank the men
and women of L’Oréal Paris for the wonderful partnership that
has grown over the last decade. We look forward to working
together over the next decade and realizing even more progress
toward our shared goal of raising awareness, finding early detection tools, and ultimately finding a cure for ovarian cancer.
4
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1...
Chemo Today, Triathlon Tomorrow
PHOTO CREDIT: DOUG PRICHARD
MaryAnn Kobylka (center) surrounded by
team members Stacey Dickenson (left)
and Beth Prichard (right)
chemotherapy treatment.
In February 2004, MaryAnn began chemotherapy. She
found that it wasn’t as difficult as she had anticipated. MaryAnn
underwent treatment once every three weeks. A five hour
process, the most visible side effect for her was losing her hair.
“People look at you differently,” said MaryAnn. “They
think you’re sick.” Other than that, MaryAnn remarked that
undergoing chemotherapy was “way easier than I had ever
imagined.” She was still healthy enough to walk her two young
boys to and from school.
In June 2004, her CA-125 count was down to 2 and the
cancer went into remission. MaryAnn began to believe that the
worst was over.
Through her good friend Ann-Marie, she was introduced
to cycling. “I started at one mile,” says MaryAnn. “And then we
went to six miles in one day.”
“I went from being a cancer patient
to being a triathlete.”
In September of that year, MaryAnn completed her first
triathlon, sponsored by Reebok to benefit Ovarian Cancer
in Seattle. She trained by taking half mile bike rides and
swimming laps in the pool. “It was the perfect date, the
perfect day, the perfect cause,” said MaryAnn. “Everything
was perfect.”
It was through competing in the triathlon that MaryAnn
reclaimed control over her life. Friends and neighbors began
to ask questions about the triathlon instead
of chemotherapy and kids. As the topic of
conversations changed, so did her attitude.
“I went from being a cancer patient
to being a triathlete,” said MaryAnn.
She explained that as a patient, she was
constantly in the doctor’s seat, taking orders
and being told what to do. There was no
room to make her own decisions. As a triathlete, she was able to take positive action,
restore control, and maintain an optimistic
attitude.
“I felt like Lance Armstrong,” said
MaryAnn. “It was the best day of my life.
It did it for me. It was a miracle. And I
thought, I could do that.”
In October 2005 MaryAnn went
for another check-up. The CA-125 count had gone from 2
to 5. From late October to early December, it jumped again
from 5 to 20. Her doctors told her that the cancer had come
back, and once it comes back it could not be cured. “It was
devastating,” MaryAnn said. “Way more than being diagnosed
the first time.”
The remission period had lasted 17 months. She was
told that each remission period would be shorter and shorter.
Her oncologist surgeon had a very negative outlook. The
doctors did not recommend any more surgery. That was when
MaryAnn started searching for a second opinion and found
Dr. Saul Rivkin of the Swedish Cancer Institute in Seattle. “He
is a saintly man,” she said. They met at 7pm one night and
talked until 10pm. After other doctors told her that there were
no good treatment options left, he said that she should deliver
chemo to the abdomen directly. “You can’t give up,” Dr. Rivkin
told her. “You have to fight and fight and fight.”
In January 2006, MaryAnn started receiving
intraperitoneal chemotherapy—a process where anticancer
drugs are delivered directly into the abdominal cavity through
a thin tube. It was her hardest treatment to date. She suffered
from intense vomiting and was often too weak to move from
her bed.
On June 28, 2006, MaryAnn had her last treatment.
Her health gradually began to improve, but she was still
immobilized and in bed most of the time. With the triathlon
only three months away, MaryAnn decided it was time to begin
training.
5
Women of Worth Sponsored by
L’Oréal Paris Raises Funds for OCRF
On Monday evening, October 29th, CNN hosted a Women’s Empowerment
Conference at the CNN Time Warner Center in New York. With jazz playing
and the yellow lights of Columbus Circle across 59th Street sparkling in the
dark, a group of women representing women from politics, to the battlefield,
to the playing field, gathered together to recognize women.
Moderated by Soledad O’Brien, anchor and special correspondent for
the CNN Special Investigations Unit, influential women from the world stage
spoke candidly on what it meant to be an empowered woman today, and how
they had turned their personal ideals into tangible realities.
There were intimate talks with featured guests including Geraldine
Ferraro, a three term congresswoman from New York who in 1984 became
America’s first and only woman vice presidential candidate of a major party.
Also present was Dr. Heidi Squier Kraft, who was the mother of 15-month-old
twins at the time she was sent to Iraq in 2004. A member of Alpha Surgical, a
combat trauma unit based in Western Iraq, she treated the mental wounds of
war among the Marines.
Following the series of talks, Carol Hamilton, President of L’Oréal Paris
and OCRF board member presented the L’Oréal Paris Women of Worth
awards. The awardees were 13 women of all ages from all walks of life
– from 23-year-old Meagan Corlin who began serving the community at
the age of 9 by organizing a sweater drive that collected 9,250 sweaters for
the needy and went on to found two other non-profit organizations helping
youth— to 80-year-old Hesther Rippy whose literacy program continues to
help over 10,000 young adults and students learn to read, write, and break
the cycle of illiteracy.
It was an inspirational night that captured the spirit, energy, and hope
that drives influential women to become leaders in their field, and defined the
motivation that keeps them striving to realize their potential.
Each of the 13 Women of Worth honorees received $2,500 on her
behalf towards their non-profit cause and a matching $2,500 monetary
donation in her name to The Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, the ten-year
charitable partner of L’Oréal Paris.
PHOTOCREDIT: JON SIMON
In July of that year, she began training.
“I’d walk from the bed to the wall, and then
from wall to wall,” said MaryAnn. She was so
weak that it was all she could manage. She
stepped slowly and with great care, and day
by day she reached a bit further. Her exercises
often left her feeling exhausted, but the visible
progress, however small, gave her the energy
and motivation to try harder.
“When you have cancer, you feel like
a victim, that you have no control of the
situation and you can’t stop it,” said MaryAnn.
“But with the triathlon – you have control of
the situation. You can see yourself getting
better concretely.”
On September 5th, MaryAnn
participated in the Subaru Triathlon.
Surrounded by her support group of friends,
they swam, biked, and walked together—all
at the same pace. It was the hardest triathlon
MaryAnn had ever participated in to date.
The final leg of the race was a two lap mile
walk/run around a lake totaling four miles.
By that point, MaryAnn was exhausted. She
and her friends were part of the few remaining
participants still on the course.
Despite the intense physical effort it took
just to complete the course, MaryAnn decided
that it was something she had to see to the
finish. In 2 hours and 57 minutes, she was the
350th contestant to cross the finish line.
“What I want is for people to realize that
it’s not as hard as it sounds”, says MaryAnn in
reference to the triathlon. “It’s really doable.”
Over the past 4 years of triathlons,
MaryAnn and her friends have raised over
$80,000 in funds to support ovarian cancer
research.
“Cancer is a very powerful word,”
says MaryAnn. “People think when they hear
‘cancer’, they think they’re going to die, and
it’s not necessarily true. Some people are
cured of cancer, some live for many years with
cancer and some sadly die. We really don’t
know exactly how each person will do. It is
important to have hope and continue to live
each day as fully and as well as we can. One
thing I do know- everybody is going to die
eventually. When we die, hopefully our friends
and family will join together and celebrate our
lives. Whatever life we have, we must live it
well, productively, with hope and love.”
6
Fundraising News
Janet Burros Memorial
Golf Tournament
The 6th Annual Janet Burros Memorial Golf Tournament was
held at the Glen Oaks Country Club in Old Westbury, New
York on September 17th. OCRF was honored to once again
be a beneficiary of this event that raised $100,000 in funds for
OCRF. Our thanks to Mara and Ricky Sandler and Chet Burros
for their hard work and dedication.
There’s Hope and You’re Worth Town Tennis Club Ovarian
Cancer Benefit
It Ovarian Cancer Benefit
The L’Oréal Paris Cranbury New Jersey office held their 3rd
annual “There’s Hope and You’re Worth It” cocktail party
and auction to benefit OCRF on September 29th. Held at the
beautiful Governor’s mansion in Princeton, New Jersey, this
night raised over $48,000 for OCRF.
Lorrie Cesare Memorial
Harvest Brunch
Models take a
break from the
fashion show for
a group photo.
Hosted at the exclusive Town Tennis Club by Marjorie Shapiro
Pastel, the 3rd annual cocktail party and tennis exhibition
match held on June 20th was another successful event that
raised over $50,000 for OCRF. Guests enjoyed cocktails, a
silent auction, and catering from the Palm as they watched
tennis star Jim Courier on the courts.
Ovarian Cancer Awareness
Luncheon in Memory of Linda
Bump and Sandra West
On September 16th, spearheaded by Carol Thomas, the third
annual Harvest Brunch in memory of Lorrie Cesare took place
at the North Hills Country Club in Manhasset, New York.
Featuring a luncheon, fashion show, auction and raffle, this
event raised $32,000 for OCRF.
Larry Bump, Terry Gilbert, Elizabeth Howard, Alicia West, Bob West
On October 18th, 250 guests gathered together at the
Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa, Oklahoma for an
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Luncheon held in memory of Linda
Bump and Sandra West. Joining the group were members of
7
the OCRF Board of Directors, including Sol Schreiber, Donna
Nadler, Tony Broy, CEO Elizabeth Howard, Eric Lomas, and
Events Associate Julie Hazelip. Michael Trese of L’Oréal Paris
spoke about the decade long commitment between L’Oréal
and OCRF and their shared mission.
Local FOX TV news reporter Chera Kimiko moderated
the event and shared her own story of an aunt who is currently
in her 5th year of ovarian cancer remission. The attendees
had the opportunity to hear Dr. George Coukos, M.D., Ph.D,
and Associate Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the
University of Pennsylvania Medical Center speak about ovarian
cancer and the strides being made in the field of research. Dr.
Coukos is one of OCRF’s thrice funded researchers. He was
joined by Joan Walker, M.D, who serves as Co-Director of the
Oklahoma University Cancer Institute. Together, they educated
women on the signs and symptoms of the deadly disease. The
women also participated in a question and answer session with
the doctors. The event was organized by husbands Larry Bump
and Bob West in memory of their late wives in an effort to
spread awareness among women at risk for ovarian cancer.
PHOTOCREDIT: MARC S. LEVINE/NY METS
Paul LoDuca, New York Mets recipient
of the Roberto Clemente Award for
Community Service presents OCRF’s
Jamie Boris with a check
for $7,500.
Paul LoLuca of the New York
Mets Donates to OCRF
Paul LoDuca lost his mother to ovarian cancer 11 years ago
and has dedicated himself to raising funds for research and
awareness of the disease. In addition to the check for $7,500,
LoDuca donated an additional $30,000 to OCRF from a
separate event.
Ovarian Cycle Presents an
$85,000 Check to OCRF
PHOTOCREDIT: NYSE
Ovarian Cycle, in Atlanta, Georgia, whose signature cycling
events inspire people to fitness while raising both funds and
awareness, presents an $85,000 check to OCRF to be used
towards ovarian cancer research.
Valerie Smaldone, New York’s 106.7 FM radio host and ovarian cancer survivor rings The Opening BellTM at the New York Stock Exchange together
with OCRF.
Valerie Smaldone and OCRF
Ring The Opening BellTM
Kelly Boatright, Ann Ehlers, Bethany Diamond, Elizabeth Howard, Ann Prince,
Katherine Kinser / Photocredit: Ovarian Cycle
Valerie Smaldone, New York’s 106.7 FM radio host and
ovarian cancer survivor coordinated this event to raise
awareness in support of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.
She continues to be one of OCRF’s strongest supporters and
organizes events to benefit our cause – including an upcoming
musical/theatrical event scheduled for Spring 2008.
8
OCRF’s Super Saturday 10
Held on the hottest Saturday of the month, July 28th marked Super
Saturday’s 10th anniversary—and its grandest event to date. Hosted by
Donna Karan, managing editor Charla Lawhon of InStyle Magazine,
and special guest Kelly Ripa, the hugely successful designer garage sale
raised close to $3.2 million dollars to benefit OCRF.
immensely from the first 16 designers who had participated in
Super Saturday ten years ago.
In addition to shopping activities, there was a Bluefly
ring toss, where bag-toting shoppers aimed at spiked Prada
heels instead of wooden poles. A raffle featured a grand prize
of two 2008 GMC Acadia Crossovers and a Fortunoff and
Stirrings Summer
Lounge awaited
exhausted guests.
Complimentary
manicures were
given by Essie and
From its modest beginnings as a small yard sale held in Liz
pedicures by Buff
Tilberis’ backyard ten years ago— the collaboration between
Spa in the Schick
three close friends to raise money for OCRF and the fight
Intuition Plus Feet
against ovarian cancer has grown to be OCRF’s signature event
Treat Tent.
and largest fundraiser to date.
Guests of
From noon till 6 pm, more than 1,500 bargain hunters
the day included
and shop-a-holics descended on items from over 200 vendors.
Christy Turlington,
Shaded from the sun by giant white tents at Nova’s Ark Project
Edie Falco, Mandy
in the Hamptons, fashion houses shared their designer wares at
Moore, presidential
deep discounts with credit card wielding guests. Booths touted
stylish merchandise from designers such as: Donna Karan,
Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Gucci, Vera Wang, Theory, Marc
Jacobs, Hugo Boss, Diane Von Furstenberg, Carolina Herrera,
Helmut Lang, Bill Blass, Michael Kors, Salvatore Ferragamo
and Zac Posen. A special Super Saturday Accessories Salon
showcased items from numerous designers including Coach,
Fendi, Hogan, Louis Vuitton, Prada and Thomas Pink. All
the designers donated their merchandise so that proceeds
could directly benefit OCRF. It was a turnout that had grown
candidate Rudolph
Giuliani, Molly Sims, Elizabeth Hasselbeck, supermodels Petra
Nemcova and Hana Soukupova, Shoshanna Gruss, Tinsley
Mortimer, Bernadette Peters, Lorraine Bracco, Charlotte Ronson
and stylist Rachel Zoe as well as many more.
In celebration of Super Saturday’s 10th anniversary,
OCRF joined forces with leading multimedia retailer QVC® to
provide nationwide access to the event from 1:00PM to 3:00PM
so that at-home viewers could join in on the fun and get
amazing deals on designer clothing, accessories, and beauty.
9
Following the event, online luxury retailer Bluefly.com also
OCRF would like to extend a warm thank you to all
auctioned off remaining items on their website in the first official
our donors and attendees at Super Saturday. Underwritten
Super Saturday Aftersale.
personally by Donna Karan and sponsored by InStyle, all net
Like all the years before, it was an action-packed fun-filled
day for kids and shoppers alike. The lone pony ride of ten years
proceeds were able to benefit OCRF’s important scientific
research programs.
ago may have transformed into an entire farm animal motif
carnival, and the throngs may have increased by an additional
thousand somewhat faces, but the outcome was the same – an
amazing event that raised funds crucial to advancing ovarian
cancer research, raising awareness, and keeping hope alive.
Photos from far left on opposite page:
Super Saturday host Donna Karan with her daughter Gabby
and granddaughter, Stefania / Photo credit: Patrick McMullan
Petra Nemkova, Super Saturday host Kelly Ripa, and Beth
Ostrosky enjoying the day / Photo credit: WireImage
Photos on this page:
Mandy Moore / Photo credit: Patrick McMullan
OCRF President, Faith Kates Kogan with her son, Dylan.
Photo credit: Patrick McMullan
Tinsley Mortimer with her Super Saturday purchases
Photo credit: Patrick McMullan
The View Co-host, Elizabeth Hasselback showing off a
GMC Acadia / Photo credit: WireImage
10
Special Thanks to
our Participating
Designers for Being
a Part of Super
Saturday Live
Alice + Olivia
Bath & Body Works
Carmen Marc Valvo
Earnest Sewn
Felix Rey
Fortunoff
Freeze 24 7
INCA
Invicta
Kule
Lafayette 148 New York
Laura Geller
LeSportsac Inc.
Natori
philosophy
Safilo USA/Solstice Sunglass Boutique
Silhouette
Sue Devitt Beauty
Supersmile
Swarovski
Tarte
The Sak
Theory
Vincent Longo
Walter Baker
We look forward to another
great event at Super Saturday 11
in 2008!
QVC® Presents
Super Saturday Live
In celebration of Super Saturday’s
10th Anniversary, OCRF joined
forces with leading multimedia
retailer QVC® to provide
nationwide access to the designer
shopping extravaganza. QVC®
broadcasted Super Saturday live
from 1:00PM to 3:00PM. During
the broadcast, QVC® Presents
Super Saturday Live, viewers got
a taste of the event and a had
chance to purchase a variety
of products, including apparel,
accessories, jewelry and beauty at
half the suggested retail price with
all net proceeds benefiting OCRF.
A total of $570,000 was netted
for OCRF through this initiative.
Every purchase made during the
broadcast was accompanied by
informational material about
OCRF and ovarian cancer and the
show offered OCRF an incredible
opportunity to share its mission with
a national audience.
11
OCRF Grants
The work of OCRF is done through our Scientific
Advisory Committee – a group of ten of the leading
gynecologic oncologists and researchers in the United
States. They review and make recommendations for
funding our four grant programs:
The Liz Tilberis Scholars Program for
Excellence in Ovarian Cancer Research
Launched in December 2000, this program is OCRF’s signature research initiative. Mid-level researchers
(post doctoral/post fellowship) compete for unparalleled opportunities to develop techniques for early
diagnosis and improved care of women with ovarian cancer. Each scholar receives a three year grant
of $150,000 per annum so they are able to devote their time exclusively to cutting-edge ovarian cancer
research.
The Individual Investigator Awards Program
Future advances in ovarian cancer research lie in the hands of today’s researchers. The Individual
Investigator Awards Program was developed in 1998 to advance outstanding researchers early in their
careers whose projects focus on early detection, screening, and basic translational research. These
innovative projects are funded at $50,000 per annum for two years and are intended to yield results within
two years or less.
Ovarian Cancer Research Training
Program of Excellence
This highly competitive program was launched in 2003 and provides funding for trainees who are either a
Gynecology/Medical Oncology Fellow or a Ph.D. currently in their post-doctoral training at a recognized
cancer center of excellence. The grant recipients, awarded $75,000, will be working under the supervision
of a mentor who is a recognized leader in the field of ovarian cancer research and will be involved in either
laboratory, clinical, or epidemiologic research.
Program Project Development Award
This bold research program provides a three year grant of $300,000 per annum that can be used by
groups of investigators seeking to develop program project grant applications for submission to peer review
funding agencies (e.g. National Cancer Institute, NIH Research Project Grant Program, Specialized Program
of Research Excellence, Department of Defense). This may involve several investigators within one institution
or collaborations between groups in multiple institutions. Areas of emphasis include screening and early
detection, etiology and prevention, molecular therapeutics, cancer biology and genetics.
12
OCRF Grants
Progress in knowledge and technology does not move at a constant rate, rather there
tend to be times of great stagnation followed by rapid progress. We are in a golden
age of biology in which a confluence of new technologies is creating unprecedented
opportunities for the exploration of cancer biology. This is, in turn, facilitating novel
approaches to the screening, treatment and prevention of ovarian cancer.
In September 2007, OCRF awarded five top investigators $500,000 in research dollars
under the Individual Investigator Award Grant and $300,000 under OCRF’s Program of
Excellence Award Grant. Please join us in congratulating our awardees.
THE INDIVIDUAL INVESTIGATOR AWARDS
OVARIAN CANCER RESEARCH TRAINING
PROGRAM OF EXCELLENCE
Mitchell Ho, Ph.D.
Melissa Merritt, Ph.D.
National Cancer Institute
Harvard Brigham and Women’s Hospital
“Targeting Mesothelin by Human Anti-
“The Role of Stromal Microenvironment
bodies for Ovarian Cancer Treatment”
in Ovarian Cancer Development”
David Maclaughlin, Ph.D
Massachusetts General Hospital
Kuang-Hung Cheng, PhD
“Validation of a Human Ovarian Cancer Stem Cell Signature
Harvard Brigham and Women’s Hospital
and its Use to Select Optimal Therapeutic Strategies for
“Chemoresistance to Therapy in Animal
Ovarian Cancer Patients”
Models of Disease: Role of Ovarian
Cancer Stem Cells”
John Risinger, Ph.D.
Curtis and Elizabeth Anderson Cancer
Mitchell Cheung, Ph.D.
Institute at Memorial Health University
Fox Chase Cancer Center
Medical Center“ Evaluation of a Novel
“Combinatorial Targeting of the AKT
Ovarian Cancer Biomarker, OVCAPDC1,
and PAK Signaling Pathways in Ovarian
in Early and Late Stage Ovarian Cancers”
Cancer”
Tian-Li Wang
Hong Zhang, Ph.D.
Johns Hopkins School of Medicine
Fox Chase Cancer Center
“Notch3 Signaling in the Pathogenesis of
“Targeting SRC in the Treatment of
Ovarian Carcinoma”
Ovarian Cancer”
Qin Yang, M.D., Ph.D
Washington University
“BRCA1/AKT1 Pathway in Ovarian
Cancer”
13
The Scientific Advisory
Committee
We want to share some of their recent achievements:
Robert C. Bast, Jr., M.D.
University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Dr. Bast’s research team was the first to identify CA 125, the
first clinically useful marker for monitoring epithelial ovarian
cancer. His research interests include cell growth regulation of
ovarian and breast carcinomas, imprinted tumor suppressor
genes, early detection and prevention of ovarian cancer, and
antibody-mediated modulation of chemosensitivity.
Andrew Berchuck, M.D., Chair
Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center
Dr. Berchuck was elected President of the Society of
Gynecologic Oncologists for 2007 to 2008.
Jonathan S. Berek, M.D., MMSc.
Stanford University School of Medicine
Dr. Berek was elected President of the International Society
of Gynecology Center and is appointed to serve from 2008
to 2010.
Jeff Boyd, Ph.D.
Curtis and Elizabeth Anderson Cancer Institute
On July 1, Dr. Boyd was elected Director of the Curtis and
Elizabeth Cancer Institute at Memorial Health University
Medical Center
Molly Brewer, D.V.M., M.D., M.S.
University of Connecticut Health Center
Dr. Brewer is currently Associate Professor at UCHC, a research
professor in Electrical and Computer Engineering at UCONN
Storrs and Director of the Women’s Cancer Prevention
Program.
Carmel J. Cohen, M.D., Vice Chair
Columbia University, College of Physicians & Surgeons
Dr. Cohen has previously served as President for the New York
Obstetrical Society, Society of Pelvic Surgeons, and the Society
of Gynecologic Oncologists. He is currently a spokesperson
for the Manhattan Region American Cancer Society and sits on
their National Board.
Article continues on next page
From left to right:
Michael Seiden,
Jonathan Berek,
Carmel Cohen,
Molly Brewer,
Craig Rosati,
Carolyn Runowicz,
Andrew Berchuck,
Elizabeth Howard
Photo credit: Nancy Zan
14
The Scientific Advisory Committee continued
Robert F. Ozols, M.D., Ph.D.
Fox Chase Cancer Center
Dr. Ozols is the Principal Investigator of the Fox Chase Cancer
Center Specialized Program of Research Excellence (SPORE)
Grant in Ovarian Cancer.
Michael Seiden, M.D., Ph.D.
Fox Chase Cancer Center
On June 1, 2007, Dr. Seiden was named President and CEO
of the Fox Chase Cancer Center.
Carolyn D. Runowicz, M.D.
University of Connecticut Health Center
Dr. Runowicz was appointed Chair of the National Cancer
Advisory Board by President George Bush and is currently
serving the second year of her two year term ending in 2008.
Stephen C. Rubin, M.D.
Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania
Dr. Rubin has authored more than 250 publications on
gynecologic cancer, and has published six textbooks on
gynecologic cancers, including Ovarian Cancer (Lippincott),
Cervical Cancer and Preinvasive Neoplasia, (Lippincott), the
SGO Handbook: Chemotherapy of Gynecologic Malignancies
(Lippincott), and Uterine Cancer (Marcel-Deker).
Plans for the Future
On September 29th, the Scientific Advisory Committee
convened for an all day conference at the Chicago Grand
Renaissance Hotel to discuss the future of funding programs at
OCRF. There was intensive talk on increasing funding for grants
like OCRF’s Program Project Development Award – grants that
foster collaboration and “cross-talk” among investigators.
With ovarian cancer commonly regarded by the
scientific community as an “orphan disease” – a disease
which has not been “adopted” by the pharmaceutical industry
because it provides little financial incentive for the private
sector to make and market new medications to treat or prevent
it, the amount of research funding dollars and dedicated
specialists is shrinking. The SAC recognizes that it is critical to
attract highly motivated scientists and doctors into the field,
and to cultivate environments where intelligent minds can share
their varied expertise to work together towards finding early
detection tools, better treatment options, and ultimately a cure
for ovarian cancer.
A Night of Hope
PHOTO CREDIT: JON SIMON
L’Oréal Paris presented “A Night of Hope” in
celebration with Harper’s Bazaar to benefit
OCRF. The cocktail event was held at
Murano’s Restaurant in Los Angeles, CA on
Wednesday, November 7.
Elizabeth Howard, OCRF Board Members Tony Broy and Susie Fragnoli, L’Oréal Paris President
and OCRF Board Member Carol Hamilton, and Larry Bump at Night of Hope.
Diane Keaton, Andie MacDowell, President
of L’Oréal Paris Carol J. Hamilton and
Harper’s Bazaar Editor-in-Chief Glenda
Bailey co-hosted the event which included a
silent auction. They were joined by members
of the Benefit Committee including Eva
Longoria Parker, Kerry Washington, and
Kyle MacLachlan. Other guests included
Rita Wilson, Jaime Pressley, Brittany Murphy,
Linda & Jerry Bruckheimer, Nancy Davis
and Barbara Davis.
15
OCRF Staff News
From left to right: Elizabeth Howard, Nancy Zan, Katie Diamond,
Toni Mayo, Kevin Pegram (top), Craig Rosati (bottom), Julie Hazelip,
and Jamie Boris. Photocredit: Nancy Zan
Former Co-Executive Director Louisa Terry Garrido left OCRF
in July, a few weeks before the birth of her beautiful baby
daughter Julia. She lives in Philadelphia with her husband
Dr. Maurico Garrido.
Happy Anniversary to Senior Vice President Jamie Boris and
Assistant Director Craig Rosati, who both joined OCRF back
in 1997 when it was still a small non-profit operating out of
one donated room at Milberg Weiss. Ten years, $18 million in
grant money, and 106 awardees later, we salute all that Jamie
and Craig have contributed to OCRF.
Among the comings and goings, OCRF is excited to announce
the arrival of Elizabeth Howard, who joined us in July as
our new CEO. Elizabeth comes to us from Broadbridge
International Group—a marketing, communications, and
consulting firm she founded.
Formerly Co-Executive Director of OCRF, Jamie had her
second child Henry in February and continues her work as
Senior Vice President on a part-time basis.
Say welcome to our new Events Director Katie Diamond, who
joins us with over 7 years of special events and fundraising
experience and replaces Tracy Enright, who embarked on
a globe trotting round-the-world trip before finally settling in
Sydney, Australia.
Congratulations to Julie Hazelip, who has been promoted
from Events & Communications Assistant to Events &
Communications Associate.
Faye Cleary, the British voice that took your donations has
moved back to the UK and has been replaced by Namitha
Thanickal, our new intern from Hunter College.
Following five years in New York, former Communications
Manager Kira Siegbert moved to sunny San Francisco for a
new adventure.
Kevin Pegram joins us temporarily on financial projects and
Nancy Zan is the editor of this issue of HOPE.
Ways to Give Back
L’Oreal Paris Color of Hope Bracelet
L’Oreal Paris created this special Color of Hope bracelet for all to show their support of OCRF.
Whether viewed as a circle representing life, endurance, or love, or seen as an “O” for
OCRF, this bracelet is a simple way for women everywhere to visibly and tangibly help OCRF.
This beautiful bracelet is adorned with cubic zirconias and is available in three sizes.
The bracelet is $24.95 and may be purchased at any L’Oréal retail store or online at
www.lorealcolorofhope.com. L’Oréal Paris will donate 100% of net proceeds ($5.00) to
OCRF for each bracelet sold.
L’Oreal Paris Color of Hope Collection
Every fall, L’Oréal Paris unveils a special collection of makeup inspired by OCRF and women
affected by this disease. L’Oréal graciously donates 10% of the purchase price of the Color of
Hope Colour Riche lipstick to OCRF. For more information, visit www.lorealcolorofhope.com.
Our Mission: The Ovarian Cancer Research Fund
is dedicated to advancing research, raising awareness,
and finding a cure for ovarian cancer.
KNOW THE SYMPTOMS OF OVARIAN CANCER
• Vague but persistent and unexplained gastrointestinal complaints such as gas, nausea, and indigestion
• Pelvic and/or abdominal swelling and/or pain; bloating and/or feeling of fullness
• Unexplained change in bowel habits
• Unexplained weight gain or loss
• Frequency and/or urgency of urination
• New and unexplained abnormal postmenopausal vaginal bleeding
Every woman should undergo an annual rectal and vaginal pelvic examination. If an irregularity of the ovary is
detected, or if some of the vague symptoms are expressed, further testing should be performed. This may include
a CA-125 blood test and a transvaginal sonogram. It is important to note that the PAP test is used to detect
cervical cancer, NOT ovarian cancer. If you are concerned about your risk of ovarian cancer, you should speak
to your gynecologist for more information.
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