TEMPE, AZ (CBS5) -
The fourth annual run/walk to "Break the Silence on Ovarian Cancer" in Tempe drew about 1,300 participants, organizers said.
It's the largest fundraiser and awareness event for the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition.
"I have been a survivor for 7 1/2 years, almost eight in November," said Margaret Hoeft. "There's not going to be a lot of advocates because most of us die," she said.
Organized by local Chapter volunteers, the event celebrates survivors, remembers those whose lives have been lost to ovarian cancer and increases awareness about the condition.
"The symptoms are bloating, abdominal pain, frequent urination, they are all really common things that women have," said co-chair Nancy Wroble.
The event was held at Kiwanis Park Sister Cities Garden Area and consisted of a 5k run and 5k walk.
Families enjoyed entertainment, face painting for the kids and health and wellness stations.
For those who didn't make the event, donations are still welcome.
Statistics indicate, in women age 35 to 74, ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths. An estimated one woman in 71 will develop ovarian cancer during her lifetime.
The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be more than 22,000 new cases of ovarian cancer diagnosed this year and that more than 15,000 women will die from ovarian cancer this year.
"You can survive this disease... you can fight and don't give up," said survivor Torie Stypula.
When a patient is diagnosed and treated in the earliest stages, the five-year survival rate is more than 90 percent, according to the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition.
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Courtesy of National Ovarian Cancer Coalition
