Folette family affected by ‘silent killer’
September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
Many people have been wearing and displaying teal shirts, bracelets, ribbons and more during the month of September to recognize Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.
The Folette family has special reason to wear teal this September since Brenda Folette, 52, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer about a month and a half ago.
They feel ovarian cancer awareness is a very important issue since it is considered a “silent killer” with few symptoms and most patients only finding the cancer once it has reached stage three or four.
“Most people dismiss the signs of ovarian cancer and won’t go to the doctor,” said Danielle Gibson, Folette’s daughter. “The cancer progresses into stage three or four before they get help, and by that time it’s usually not treatable even with a full hysterectomy. There are no regular tests for ovarian cancer, so women just have to listen to their bodies.”
Folette had trouble breathing for quite a while before visiting the doctor.
“I thought I had a cracked rib that was hindering my breathing,” Folette said. “After it persisted for a while, other people were getting concerned about me, so I finally went to my doctor. He showed me how much fluid was on my lungs and immediately put me in the emergency room. Tests showed the pressure was from the cancer pushing on my lungs. Looking back, I remember I had a lot of bloating over the past few months that I had dismissed that was a warning sign. I never would have thought it was a real problem.”
Ovarian cancer is often transferred genetically. Gibson said her mother’s diagnosis has made her think about her own health more.
“If a mother has ovarian cancer, genetic tests can be done to see if the daughter or granddaughter is likely to get it,” Gibson said. “This is definitely something that has made me realize it could happen to me. I think I will be more apt to have a yearly physical and seek help when I feel like something could be wrong.”
Folette has already undergone a full hysterectomy and one round of chemotherapy since her diagnosis, but she is continuing to stay active and positive. She is a member of Shiloh Baptist Church and was able to lead a worship service recently.
Their family has received support from all over the United States, according to Gibson.
“We have had people from several other states tell us they were praying for our family,” Gibson said. “We have had people make and sell T-shirts in honor of my mom. People my dad works with at Teledyne Brown Engineering wear their Team Brenda T-shirts every Friday to work. Everyone has been so great and supportive, so it’s easier to stay positive. I think my own way of coping was to buy anything teal I could find and make others aware.”
Folette said she wants to stress to all women the importance of taking care of themselves.
“As women we usually ignore the persistent pains and dismiss them because of age or something else, but you never know,” Folette said. “I would encourage everyone to listen to that voice in your head that tells you something isn’t right. Tell your doctor how you’re feeling and be specific. If they don’t help you get the answers, try another doctor.”
Folette credits the support she has received from family and friends with keeping her upbeat.
“The support we have received has been tremendous,” Folette said. “So far, I haven’t felt the need to join any support groups, but I know that the Clearview Cancer Center offers some great groups if I ever need them. I would hope other women in my situation would reach out to support groups like those if they needed more help. It’s not something you need to do alone.”