A Woodend resident took part in Frocktober, uploading a daily photo of herself, family, friends – and even her cat – in different frocks, raising funds and awareness for cancer research.
Frocktober is an annual month-long event by the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation that encourages people to ‘frock up’ in an effort to raise awareness and funds for ovarian cancer research.
Woodend resident Karyn Stamp was diagnosed with late-stage ovarian cancer this year, starting chemotherapy in June and receiving major surgery in September.
“I had symptoms of extreme bloating, feeling full after eating small meals and the need to urinate urgently,” Ms Stamp said.
“It was not until some abnormal results following a routine blood test prompted an abdominal ultrasound, which identified ascites … a common symptom of late-stage ovarian cancer,” she said.
“While my chemotherapy treatments have been successful, ovarian cancer returns for over 80% of women with advanced cancer and then treatment options are limited, as the cancer often becomes chemo-resistant.”
On October 29, Ms Stamp and her friends from Woodend took part in a group photoshoot at Hanging Rock titled Frock around the Rock, with local photographer Kim Selby.
“It was a chance to use an amazing location, one that is synonymous with the area, to help raise awareness of ovarian cancer,” Ms Stamp said.
“I would like to see a campaign to make sure GPs are aware of ovarian cancer symptoms … an early detection and screen tool available, and more treatments for women with advanced ovarian cancer,” she said.
In addition to Ms Stamp’s local fund and awareness raising efforts, a comedy fundraiser will be hosted in Woodend late this month with comedians Des Dowling and Dave O’Neil.
Donations can be made online to Ms Stamp’s fundraiser throughout November.
Details: www.frocktober.org.au/fundraise/stampyk
