In September, during Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, I had the incredible honor of attending the Department of Defense Ovarian Cancer Academy (OCA) and the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) conferences. To be surrounded by researchers, advocates, and survivors at such a pivotal time was deeply meaningful, and an experience that truly changed my life.
As a survivor and advocate, I walked into these rooms carrying not only my personal story but also the voices of so many women whose journeys with ovarian cancer are often unheard. And yet, what I found was not only open ears, but open hearts, brilliant minds, and a space where collaboration between survivors, advocates, and researchers was celebrated.
Being One of the Few Black Women in the Room | Lessons and Lifelong Learning
Representation matters. Walking into these spaces, I could count on one hand how many African Americans were present, and that meant everything to me.
Being one of the few was not a moment of isolation—it was a reminder of why my voice, my perspective, and my advocacy are needed. Too often, women who look like me are left out of the conversation when it comes to ovarian cancer research and care. My presence was more than personal—it was purposeful.
There’s a quote that says: “If you want to be a lifelong learner, make sure you are always one of the dumbest people in whatever room you enter.”
At these conferences, I was surrounded by some of the brightest scientific minds in the world. Instead of feeling small, I felt inspired. Every presentation, every conversation, and every connection stretched me to think bigger about how survivors can shape the future of ovarian cancer research.
Gratitude for the Powell-Drescher Foundation | A Shift in My Goals and Vision
None of this would have been possible without the generous support of the Powell-Drescher Ovarian Cancer Foundation. Their commitment to bridging the gap between survivors and scientists is inspiring. Because of them, advocates like me are not only in the room but are truly invited to the table.
I’m deeply grateful for their belief in collaboration, for creating opportunities for survivors to connect with researchers, and for investing in the power of our lived experiences to help move science forward.
Walking away from these conferences, my perspective has shifted. My goals are sharper, my vision is clearer, and my commitment is deeper.
I no longer just want to share my story, I want to help change the narrative. I want to be a voice for women who look like me, for those whose stories haven’t been told, and for future generations who deserve earlier detection, better treatment options, and equitable care.
I left with new knowledge, powerful connections, and a renewed fire to continue this work. But most importantly, I left with the hope that together, survivors, advocates, and scientists can create real change.
Final Reflection
God has been ordering my steps in ways I could never imagine. What cancer tried to take from me, advocacy has given back tenfold: purpose, passion, and a platform.
The DoD OCA and AACR weren’t just conferences—they were confirmation. My story matters. My voice matters. My presence matters. And I’m committed to ensuring that no one fighting ovarian cancer ever feels unseen or unheard.
Timelle Duckett
Ovarian Cancer Survivor, Research Advocate