WOMEN PAVING THE WAY TO PROGRESS
Scientific progress doesn’t happen in isolation. It takes researchers, supporters, and women like Jo and Sbba – turning their own experience into lasting impact.
The Ovarian Cancer Action Research Network is a nationwide, virtual group of individuals affected by ovarian cancer who use their experiences to shape future research.
Anyone affected by ovarian cancer can join, helping to ensure studies focus on what truly matters to patients.
The women you’ll meet here are all part of this network. Jo and Sbba offered their insights, experiences and perspectives to help shape the OvarianVax research – knowing it wouldn’t benefit them personally, but hoping it could protect others.
Women who refuse to give up
The patient involvement group behind OvarianVax shared one powerful belief: the future can be different.
They all had already been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, meaning a preventative vaccine wouldn’t help them – but they chose to take part anyway. They gave their time, experiences, and voices to help guide the research – ensuring it reflects the real needs and priorities of women affected by ovarian cancer.
Some of these women are no longer with us. Their absence is deeply felt, but their impact lives on.
“This project is more than just science. It’s about honouring the women who dedicated their precious time to research and to the hope that no woman will face ovarian cancer in the future.”
Professor Ahmed has spent over a decade dedicated to this research, with continuous support from Ovarian Cancer Action.
From the very start, we believed in his vision and backed him when the project was still just an ambitious idea. Today, that belief has brought us to an exciting moment – one where a potential vaccine might be taking shape.
Sbba: standing up for change
For Sbba, 55, from Berkshire, the journey to her ovarian cancer diagnosis was fraught with challenges. For six long and stressful months, her symptoms were dismissed as menopause.
Sbba
“I wanted to be part of this so other women wouldn’t have to experience what I did. A vaccine would be a game-changer.”
begin treatment, chemotherapy left her with debilitating side effects – including permanent nerve damage, chronic pain, and severe rashes.
Yet, despite everything, Sbba remains a powerful advocate. Sbba chose to participate in OvarianVax and continues to support women through the Ovarian Cancer Action’s Research Network. Sbba’s participation wasn’t just about science – it was about ensuring that every voice, especially those from underrepresented communities, was heard.
“Cancer does not discriminate. So I wanted to ensure minority voices were represented.”
Jo: grateful and hopeful
When Jo, 67, from South Oxfordshire, felt something wasn’t right, her GP listened.
That early intervention meant she was diagnosed with stage 2a mucinous ovarian cancer while treatment was still highly effective. Catching cancer early made all the difference, giving her the chance for successful treatment and remission.
But Jo continues to advocate for research, hoping she can spare others from the fear and uncertainty of diagnosis.
Jo
“I was fortunate my cancer was caught early, but too many women are not. That’s why I joined the Research Network – because early prevention could save lives. I’m optimistic that one day this vaccine will be available to all.”
The dedication of women like Jo and Sbba – and those no longer with us – is shaping a future where fewer women will face ovarian cancer. Their voices are changing the direction of research. With every new person who joins the Research Network, a future where all women survive, grows closer.
WILL YOU HELP US SHAPE FUTURE RESEARCH?
Anyone affected by ovarian cancer can join the Ovarian Cancer Action Research Network, helping to ensure studies focus on what truly matters to patients. Members help research that is in its early stages, before clinical trials. They review research proposals, collaborate with scientists, and funding decisions - all from the comfort of their homes.
To find out more about joining please visit ovarian.org.uk/researchnetwork