Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo (D-Endwell) was joined today by Diana Cahill, Regional Vice President for the Southern New York Region Eastern Division of the American Cancer Society, and Cheryl Kurosky from Self Help for Women with Breast or Ovarian Cancer (SHARE) to present SHARE with a New York State’s first-ever Resolution proclaiming September as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Kicking off Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, September 3rd – the first Friday in September – will be designated as “National Wear Teal Day.”

“Through the efforts of organizations like SHARE and the American Cancer Society, Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in September has turned into a national movement devoted to finding a test and a cure for this disease,” said Assemblywoman Lupardo, who authored the resolution. “I’m encouraging all women to talk with their doctors about the risk factors, symptoms and treatment options available. Through education and continued outreach, we can win the fight against ovarian cancer and save the lives of thousands of women in America.”

SHARE is a not-for-profit, peer organization aimed to create and sustain a supportive network and community of women affected by breast or ovarian cancer, and provides participants with the opportunity to receive and exchange information, support, strength, and hope. The purpose of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month is to increase understanding of ovarian cancer and the importance of early detection, and to recognize the advances made to eliminate the disease. It is estimated that 25,000 American women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer this year and more than 14,000 will die from the disease.

For additional information, please visit the websites for SHARE and the American Cancer Society or call them toll free at (866) 53-SHARE and (800) 227-2345.