“Our Walk In Her Name was a wonderful day and a happy memory I'll hold in my heart”

Fiona Munro was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at 30 years old. This year, for Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, she arranged a Walk In Her Name in celebration of every woman fighting ovarian cancer.

"In January 2016 I was diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer. I was just thirty years old.

Despite months (if not years) of symptoms my cancer was not diagnosed until it was too late, having spread throughout my abdominal and chest cavity. Why? Well a mixture of being considered 'too young' and not fitting the profile seems to be the only answer I'm offered.

However, now an active campaigner for awareness around ovarian cancer, I am increasingly aware of younger women being diagnosed. Women in their 20s and 30s contact me regularly via my blog and Facebook page.

I’ve said from the start that if just one woman gets diagnosed at an earlier stage as a result of my campaigning then my diagnosis has been worth it. So, when I saw Ovarian Cancer Action's post about hosting a #WalkInHerName, I realised it was a great opportunity to not only raise money for the charity but also to highlight the symptoms and get more younger women involved.

Using my various social media channels I excitedly began organising the event and was overwhelmed by the response! Women from across Scotland got in touch asking if they could come, as well as families who had lost a loved one to the disease.

On the day of my Walk In Her Name around 50 people joined me, including men and children as well as women. We even had some well-behaved dogs join us too!

Most incredibly I was joined by one of my dear 'chemo buddies' and fellow ovarian cancer warrior Ali, who had received a dose of weekly chemotherapy just two days before the walk.

Dressed from head to toe in teal – including a tutu hand made by one of my best friends – I was ready to walk in the name of all of my fellow warriors.

Recognising the seriousness of the occasion, I started the walk with a one-minute silence to remember those who have died, as well as letting our thoughts and best wishes go to those who are currently undergoing treatment.

The mood wasn't somber though and, as the rare Scottish sun shined down on our group, there was laughter and joy filling the air.

Together the group has raised nearly £2000 for ovarian cancer research so far, whilst also making more people aware of the symptoms. It was a wonderful day and a happy memory I will hold in my heart.

With thanks to Ovarian Cancer Action for all that they do to help women like me and our families.

Love and light, Fi"

Would you like to organise a Walk In Her Name in honour of a loved one affected by ovarian cancer? Register today for your free fundraising pack.