Media: FAQ COCA

FAQ COCA.pdf

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Media Contact:  Gerri Gomez Howard
Cell:  303-748-3933
gerri@gomezhowardgroup.com
 

 
What is the Colorado Ovarian Cancer Alliance?
The Colorado Ovarian Cancer Alliance (COCA) was established in June of 2005 as a 501(c)(3)
nonprofit corporation whose mission is to promote awareness of ovarian cancer through
advocacy and education, and to support survivors of ovarian cancer. COCA members are
survivors, family and friends, medical professionals, and volunteers who want to make a
difference in Colorado in the battle against ovarian cancer.  COCA is a partner-member of the
Ovarian Cancer National Alliance (OCNA).
 
For what does COCA advocate?
The Colorado Ovarian Cancer Alliance advocates for excellence in health care for, and increased
research on, ovarian cancer.  Some of COCA’s strategic partners in these efforts include the
Ovarian Cancer National Alliance, the University of Colorado School of Medicine, the 9Health
Fair, the Colorado Cancer Coalition, the Colorado Ovarian Cancer Advisory Panel, the Cheryl
Shakleford Foundation, and the Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment. 
COCA also is active in the Colorado Consumer Health Initiative, the Colorado Chronic Care
Coalition and the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Action Network.
 
How does COCA educate Coloradans?
COCA members want to raise public awareness of ovarian cancer by educating doctors, health
care providers and the public. Through its Speakers Bureau, COCA provides clubs, organizations
and groups interested in learning more about ovarian cancer with knowledgeable speakers.   At
local Health Fairs, COCA supplies information about the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer,
risk factors, and other important facts about this disease for which early detection is the key to
long-time survival.  COCA also raises awareness about symptoms and risks via Survivors
Teaching Students.  Ovarian cancer survivors put a face on this illness by sharing their stories
with medical and nursing students at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, Regis
University and other health sciences educational institutions.
 
Why is the education COCA provides important?
It is critical that women learn about the symptoms of ovarian cancer. Pap smears do not detect
this disease and there are currently no reliable screening methods. Knowing the signs and
symptoms is the best way for a woman to keep track of her health regarding ovarian cancer. It
is also important to know the risk factors and what to do if you have symptoms. In addition,
ovarian cancer is commonly misdiagnosed as an intestinal disorder; so it is crucial that
physicians raise their awareness of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer. 
What types of support does COCA offer?
COCA offers ovarian cancer support groups, called Nicki’s Circle.  Nicki’s Circle is a safe place for
women with ovarian cancer and their caretakers to meet other women and share their
experiences, fears and hopes as well as information.  These groups, which are offered monthly
around the Denver metro area, are professionally led and are free of cost to participants.  In
addition, COCA has a Nicki's Circle Online as well as a Nicki’s Circle Tele-Support Group. There is
also a special Caregivers Circle for those who are caring for or are close to someone who is
dealing with a diagnosis of ovarian cancer. For more information about COCA’s support
services, contact support@colo-ovariancancer.org.
 
How does the Colorado Ovarian Cancer Alliance fund its programs?
COCA relies on contributions to fund the education, advocacy and support it offers to Colorado
women.  Tax-deductible donations can be made online at www.colo-ovariancancer.org or by
sending a check to P.O. Box 9216, Denver, CO 80209.
 
Where can I find information about COCA events and fundraisers?
Visit events@colo-ovariancancer.org.
 
How can I contact the Colorado Ovarian Cancer Alliance?
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 9216, Denver, CO  80209
Phone:  303.506.7014 or 1.800.428.0642
Email: contactus@colo-ovariancancer.org
Website: www.colo-ovariancancer.org