Today, we’re delighted to announce the appointment of Lady Sewell MBE as Ovacome’s newest Patron. 

Known throughout the ovarian cancer community for her commitment to raising awareness of the disease, fundraising for ovarian cancer charities and bringing people with an ovarian cancer diagnosis together, Adele was awarded an MBE in the 2023 New Year’s Honours list for her charitable services to ovarian cancer. 

Following a diagnosis of breast cancer at 35 years old in 1999, Adele noticed what she would later understand to be the early signs of ovarian cancer six years later in 2005, but it wasn’t until September 2007 that ovarian cancer was diagnosed. Confirmed as carrying the BRCA2 gene change, three of her four siblings also have an inherited increased risk. The ovarian cancer has recurred twice since, and Ovacome has supported her throughout.

Victoria Clare, Ovacome CEO said, “We are delighted that Adele has accepted our invitation to become Ovacome’s newest patron. We’ve known Adele since 2008, and she has been tireless in her quest to support others in the ovarian cancer community, powerfully using her voice to share her own experiences and advocate for others.

“It feels particularly appropriate that we announce her patronage today, when we celebrate the 15th edition of the Touch of Teal event, which since 2010, has raised more than £350,000 for Ovacome.

“Ovacome is a membership organisation, we are led by members of the community, and we know this partnership with Adele will only strengthen what we are able to achieve. We can’t wait to get started!”

Adele said, “Ovacome has helped me in many ways over the years. Receiving an ovarian cancer diagnosis can be quite isolating but thanks to Ovacome I was able to meet other women with the same diagnosis. When my surgeons said another surgery was impossible, I spoke to Ovacome and they helped me to ask for a second opinion. This led to another surgery and for the last five years I’ve been ‘no evidence of disease. I’ve also found sharing my story with Ovacome really cathartic, particularly through Ovacome’s Survivors Teaching Students programme which educates future doctors about ovarian cancer.

“As a patron, I’m hoping to lend my assistance wherever and whenever Ovacome needs me to help. We all want earlier diagnosis which usually means a better prognosis, and I’ll do all I can to help Ovacome achieve their mission.”

Read Adele’s profile in full.

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