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If you are diagnosed in Colorado

We have lots of information and resources to share with you. Click on the COCA Connections button or click the downloadable form below to connect with us and other women who have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer. You'll be so glad you did!

We know that receiving an ovarian cancer diagnosis can be a scary and challenging experience, and we are here to support you through the journey. We have dedicated staff, exceptional volunteers, and a community of women who have gone through, or are still going through, the challenges of dealing with this disease. We are here for you through all stages of ovarian cancer.

You're never on this journey alone. Contact us before coming to support group for the first time, for more information or to talk about your diagnosis. Reach out to us at 720-519-3122 or Jeanice@Colo-OvarianCancer.org.  

Start Strong

We suggest you do three things after an ovarian cancer diagnosis:

  • During surgery, doctors attempt to remove all visible tumors (tumor debulking). Women whose surgery was performed by a gynecologic oncologist have better outcomes than patients whose surgeons were not oncologists (i.e. gynecologists), including improved survival and longer disease-free intervals.

    It is important that you see a Gynecologic Oncologist, not an OB-GYN, for your ovarian cancer care. A "gyn" oncologist has extensive training in ovarian cancer surgery and is well-informed about specific chemotherapy treatments. Research shows that women who are under the care of a gynecologic oncologist have better outcomes with ovarian cancer.

  • Consider joining an ovarian cancer support group where you can share information and support with other women. As far as we know, Nicki's Circle Ovarian Cancer Support Groups are the only ovarian cancer-specific support groups available in Colorado. Before the pandemic, we had groups meet in person and one by phone. Now, all the groups are available on Zoom, and the phone group has continued meeting by phone. You can also consider joining a general cancer support group in your area or accessing online support.

  • There is a TON of information available about ovarian cancer on the web. Stay informed without becoming overwhelmed. Take the information you find with you to your doctor visits to discuss. However, if you get depressed or overwhelmed with all of the statistics and details you read, moderate your exposure and time on the Internet.

Understanding Ovarian Cancer Treatments

Navigating and understanding treatment options are critical for an ovarian cancer patient’s survival. All treatment decisions should be made by a patient in consultation with her medical professional.

Learn about COCA's Support Programs

We also suggest you take advantage of COCA's support programs. Order a Comfort Kit to take with you during ovarian cancer treatments. Find our Resource Guide on this website for valuable and relevant resources for the journey. Join us at a Nicki's Circle Support Group to meet other women, and check out our Financial Assistance if you find yourself in a situation of need. We're here to help you through all stages of ovarian cancer.

  • Our support groups are called "NIcki's Circle." We provide ongoing support groups for women who have received a diagnosis of ovarian cancer or other gyn cancer diagnosis. You will find the right fit for you! There are long-term survivors, women newly diagnosed and women in recurrence at Nicki's Circle. The groups offer information, connection and hope.

  • The COCA Comfort Kit program is for women who are newly diagnosed with ovarian cancer in Colorado. The tote bag "kit" includes items of comfort (a soft teal blanket, a hand knit item, etc.) along with a copy of our Ovarian Cancer Resource Guide (see above). If you or someone you know is interested in receiving a COCA Comfort Kit, please contact Jeanene Smith at 720-971-9436 or Jeanene@Colo-OvarianCancer.org.

  • Our expert financial advocates are here to help you navigate through the financial aspect of your medical treatment. One of our advocates will meet with you in person or over the phone to review your current medical coverage and clinical treatment plan and, if needed, work together to create a new, personalized strategy to minimize your financial burden going forward.

  • COCA can offer assistance to those women diagnosed with ovarian cancer who find themselves in a situation of financial hardship.

  • Our online Colorado Ovarian Cancer Resource Guide provides extensive information on local, state, and national resources, including our support services.

We Are Here for You.