It’s estimated in 2021 alone that over 113,000 women will be diagnosed with gynecologic cancer in the US. At AdventHealth Central Florida, it’s our goal to improve gynecologic cancer care for women here in Central Florida and around the world. Every September, our Teal Takeover initiative raises funds for gynecologic cancer research, wellness, and survivorship resources to support those impacted by gynecologic cancer. By participating in the Teal Takeover campaign, everyone can support these women and raise awareness of gynecologic cancers. AdventHealth Foundation Central Florida is honored to highlight a couple who are continuously living out this mission, Karen and Jim Ingalls.
At age 67, Karen was experiencing a bloating abdomen. She assumed this symptom was a normal part of aging and being post-menopausal. Even with years of training and experience as a registered nurse, she was not prepared to learn that a bloating abdomen is the most common symptom of ovarian cancer. Furthermore, that there is presently no screening or early detection test for ovarian cancer.
Today, Karen is thankfully alive and well. She now has a mission: “for every female to know the symptoms of this silent and lesser-known cancer. It is my hope that each female will know and listen to the area below the belt.” Karen and other local survivors have joined forces over the last couple of years to establish support groups across Central Florida to better engage with women who are newly diagnosed and have built a comprehensive network of support for women faced with gynecologic cancers.
Karen and her husband, Jim, are active ambassadors for Teal Takeover. Although they consider themselves reluctant fundraisers, Karen and Jim have engaged countless community members in learning more about gynecologic cancer and they have stressed the importance of funding research. In addition to spreading awareness, they continue to financially give to AdventHealth Central Florida’s gynecologic cancer research, and have made plans to further support by deciding to contribute through a future planned gift.
AdventHealth Central Florida is honored to recognize Karen and Jim Ingalls. Their legacy of support is inspiring to others and bringing our community together in meaningful ways to address the complexities of gynecologic cancers. We are grateful to our Volunteers of the Month for September!
Learn more about Teal Takeover at AdventHealth.com/Teal
