'Teal Niagara Falls - Teal the World': 3rd annual fundraiser supports local women with ovarian cancer

On Friday, Sept. 11, the WNY Ovarian Cancer Project is hosting its third annual fundraising event, "Teal Niagara Falls - Teal the World," at the Niagara Culinary Institute in Niagara Falls. This event will generate funds for the WNYOCP's community education program, as well as for the supportive services it provides to local women with ovarian cancer and their families.

The evening's festivities include gourmet food and desserts, live music by Carl Filbert, a basket raffle and silent auction. As part of the evening's program, guests will take a special trolley ride to Niagara Falls State Park to see the Niagara Falls illuminated in teal in honor of ovarian cancer awareness.

WNYOCP President Kathleen Maxian called the event "a happening."

"We are shining a light on ovarian cancer by illuminating the falls in teal and getting much-needed worldwide attention," she said. "Most women don't know the symptoms or their personal risk factors that could save their lives. The educational work we do locally is lifesaving."

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecologic cancer. This year, more than 21,000 women will be diagnosed and over 14,000 will die. Due to the lack of an early detection test, less than 15 percent of ovarian cancer is diagnosed early - when it is most treatable. For this reason, increased awareness and advocacy is critical.

The WNYOCP is a designated 501(c) (3) private, nonprofit partner member of the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance, which promotes saving lives through early detection and improved treatment outcomes. In addition to community outreach and education, the WNYOCP provides advocacy, resources and support for women with ovarian cancer in the Western New York counties.

For more information, visit http://www.wnyovariancancerproject.org/.