As this year draws to a close, I reflect on 2022 with much gratitude and look ahead to 2023 with eager anticipation.
My first year as Chair of the World Ovarian Cancer Coalition Board has been filled with many highs, and I am hugely in awe of the outstanding work of the global ovarian cancer community. As Chief Executive of Target Ovarian Cancer, I know how tough these last few years have been, fraught with challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, and now we face further uncertainty with the cost of living increasing globally against a backdrop of political instability. Because of this I am enormously proud to be part of a global movement that remains committed to improving survival and quality of life for every woman at risk of or living with an ovarian cancer diagnosis.
I am amazed by the work being done in the face of – and in spite of – these challenges, that I am left in no doubt we will indeed change the future of ovarian cancer.
It has been a busy year for the Coalition as well. Our record-breaking World Ovarian Cancer Day campaign in May transitioned into our first-ever Pride Month campaign, where we addressed the particular challenges and risks of the often-overlooked LGBTQ2+ community.
Our strategic partnership with the International Gynecologic Cancer Society (IGCS) continues to bear fruit, as our much anticipated Every Woman Study™: Low- and Middle-Income Edition is now out in the field, with data starting to come in from 24 countries.
It was our profound joy to be able to meet in person as a Board as we gathered for an intensive three-day summit to map out our strategy for the next 5-years. We have some exciting plans in the works, as we sharpen our focus and adjust our mission and vision to reflect our maturing organisation.
Heading into 2023, I renew our pledge to provide global leadership and insight so we can make ovarian cancer a global priority. Supporting our stellar partner organisations will remain a key pillar of our work and empowering them with new pieces of strategic evidence so at local, national, and international levels we can, individually and as a community, advocate for all women no matter where they live.
And by continuing to develop and build collaborations and partnerships, we are confident we WILL get to “No Woman Left Behind.”
On behalf of the Coalition, thank you and we wish you the most peaceful of holidays and a safe and healthy New Year.
Annwen Jones OBE
Chair, World Ovarian Cancer Coalition