Ovarian Cancer Survivor Turns Pain Into Purpose

Rachel reflects on community, advocacy, and living a life shaped by purpose—not just diagnosis.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 8:20pm by Ben Kaplan

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When Rachel was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2018, it marked a profound turning point in her life. Now, eight years later, she has faced recurrent ovarian cancer twice. Despite the challenges, Rachel has emerged as a passionate patient advocate, educator, and legislative lobbyist, using her experience to raise awareness and push for change. Her story highlights the power of community, the importance of de-stigmatizing conversations around gynecologic cancers, and the transformative potential of turning personal pain into purposeful action.

Why it matters

Ovarian cancer is a particularly difficult disease to detect early, with the majority of women diagnosed at an advanced stage. Rachel's story sheds light on the emotional and practical challenges of navigating a cancer diagnosis and recurrence, while also underscoring the vital role that community, advocacy, and a sense of purpose can play in the healing process.

The details

After her initial diagnosis in 2018, Rachel underwent six rounds of chemotherapy, which proved effective. However, the cancer returned with a vengeance three and a half years later, giving her firsthand experience of the severe symptoms many patients endure. Despite the setback, Rachel has channeled her energy into advocacy, consulting with biotech and pharmaceutical companies to help translate complex science into patient-friendly messaging, and pushing for research funding and policy changes at the state and federal level.

  • In 2003, Rachel learned about her genetic predisposition to cancer and discussed preventive measures with her doctors.
  • In 2018, Rachel underwent surgery that confirmed her ovarian cancer diagnosis.
  • In 2021, Rachel's cancer returned, marking her second battle with the disease.

The players

Rachel

An ovarian cancer survivor who has faced the disease twice, and is now a passionate patient advocate, educator, and legislative lobbyist.

16th Avenue Tiled Steps

A community art installation in San Francisco that Rachel helped launch 20 years ago, which she sees as a symbol of the collective effort essential for anyone battling a deadly disease.

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What they’re saying

“Everyone's decision is different, depending on where they are in life.”

— Rachel, Ovarian cancer survivor and patient advocate (Good Housekeeping)

“I scream from the rooftops. I want us to be talking about the organs down there—the organs that give us life and that can kill us. I want us talking about them all the time.”

— Rachel, Ovarian cancer survivor and patient advocate (Good Housekeeping)

“Having others advocate for you is everything when it comes to any kind of health challenge. My really good friends were my go-to.”

— Rachel, Ovarian cancer survivor and patient advocate (Good Housekeeping)

What’s next

Rachel continues to advocate for increased awareness and funding for ovarian cancer research, as well as policy changes to improve early detection and treatment options.

The takeaway

Rachel's story demonstrates the transformative power of turning personal pain into purposeful action. By channeling her experience with ovarian cancer into advocacy, education, and community-building, she is not only making a difference in the lives of others but also finding meaning and resilience in the face of a devastating diagnosis.