It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Doris Helene White Soares, a devoted wife, mother, friend, and tireless advocate. Doris faced a long journey with synchronous cervical and uterine cancers with incredible determination, leaving behind a legacy of courage, resilience, and advocacy that will continue to inspire all of us.
“I had the distinct honor of interviewing Doris—whom I fondly referred to as “Miss Doris”—on an episode of the Cervivor Podcast. In that conversation, she shared her experience of being diagnosed with cancer later in life, and how she never stopped using her voice to break the stigma surrounding the disease,” shared Joslyn Chaiprasert-Paguio, Cervivor Ambassador and Podcast Host.
Doris reflected on her diagnosis during their interview, recalling how it came unexpectedly. “Who knew that my cervix would act up during the same year in which I qualified for Medicare?” she shared. “Cervical malignancies were for younger, pre-menopausal women, right?” She voiced her frustration with the stigma surrounding HPV and its connection to cervical cancer, challenging the harmful notion that cancer should be a source of shame. Doris refused to remain silent. She boldly declared in an email to Joslyn, “This middle-aged wife and Nana has absolutely no intention of shouldering the stigma, and I suggest you don’t either. Our cells may betray us, but we can find power in knowledge, support, and self-awareness.”
Doris was a passionate advocate who regularly attended support group meetings including our monthly Creating Connections and quarterly Cervivor Noir MeetUps. She candidly shared her journey and encouraged others to do the same. Though petite in stature, Doris’s presence was enormous in her dedication, kindness, and support. It’s no surprise that so many in our community often wished they could embody even a fraction of the grace and composure that Doris so effortlessly extended to everyone she met.
A gathering of the Cervivor Noir virtual support group to bring together cervical cancer patients and survivors who identify as African American and/or Black.
Her advocacy extended far beyond her own journey. Doris was steadfast in her commitment to encourage others, always urging those in the various support groups she attended to share their stories and lift one another up. Her poise, generosity, and unshakable commitment to fighting cervical cancer and dispelling stigma inspired everyone she encountered. Her legacy of advocacy and compassion will continue to guide others facing similar challenges.
Doris’s presence was a symbol of hope and encouragement, and she leaves behind a profound impact on all who knew her.
Yvette Torres reflected on Doris’s influence: “In the Creating Connections Zooms, I got to know Doris through her openness about her story and cancer journey. She inspired me with her strength and dedication to advocacy in her later years. Despite her health struggles, Doris had such a zest for life and appreciation for each day given to her. I will miss seeing her on Zoom and hearing her voice and laugh.”
A group photo captured of the Creating Connections monthly virtual support groupheld in early 2023.
Christy Chambers, who admired Doris’s grace, shared: “Doris was the epitome of grit and grace! She embraced her cancer journey, and under immense pressure (working, parenting, 2 different cancers, etc.) created an amazing legacy that we can all admire. We were blessed to experience the freedom she felt when she lost her hair – ‘wash and go,’ she said! We laughed at the stories she told of shocked church members who wondered how she could have a gynecological cancer. We were humbled when she cautioned us to slow down and rest. Like a pearl, her iridescent spirit will shine on through her family, her writing, and through those of us who had the opportunity to be in her world.”
Gwendolyn Jackson shared a heartfelt memory of Doris: “Though Mrs. Doris has passed, her warm greeting of ‘Good Morning, Beautiful Lady’ will forever echo in my heart. Her kindness and light will be missed, but her words will always remind me of the beauty she saw in me, and in the world.”
As we celebrate the life and legacy of Doris, we invite you to share your cherished memories of her and reflect on the ways she inspired you. Take a moment to revisit Miss Doris’s heartfelt writings, where she shared her wisdom and insights:
Pictured to the left is one of Doris’s handwritten journal entries.
These personal essays offer a glimpse into her spirit and continue to inspire us. We welcome you to read, share, and remember Doris’s impact on your life.
Every September, Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month (GCAM) sheds light on a group of diseases that affect millions of women worldwide. With over 100,000 new cases diagnosed annually in the U.S. and more than 30,000 lives lost each year, raising awareness is crucial. One of the biggest challenges in combating gynecologic cancers is education. These cancers are often diagnosed at advanced stages, making awareness and early detection vital for improving outcomes. Knowledge is power, after all!
At Cervivor, Inc., our mission is to empower women through education, support, and advocacy. This GCAM, we aim to break the silence surrounding gynecologic cancers by providing comprehensive information, dispelling myths, and fostering a strong support community. Read on to learn how to join the movement!
What Are Gynecologic Cancers?
Gynecologic cancers affect the female reproductive organs, including the cervix, ovaries, uterus, vulva, and vagina. Depending on the diagnosis, these cancers can lead to challenging fertility journeys or rigorous treatments for survival.
Cervivor’s founder, Tamika Felder, went through this journey firsthand. After surviving cervical cancer in her twenties, she transformed her personal struggle into a powerful advocacy platform. “I felt a deep depression, heartbroken about the loss of a child I never had and the loss of everything I thought that made me a woman,” Tamika shares in her Cervivor Story. Her experience and that of too many women underscores the need for continued awareness about cervical cancer and other gynecologic cancers and support for those impacted by them.
While significant progress has been made, particularly in cervical cancer prevention, there is still much work to be done to further women’s health awareness.
Types of Gynecologic Cancers
Understanding the different types of gynecologic cancers is essential for awareness and prevention. Here’s what to know about…
Begins in the cervix, the lower part of the uterus that opens into the vagina.
New Diagnoses Annually: Approximately 13,820 in the U.S. and 604,000 globally
Deaths Annually: About 4,360 in the U.S. and 342,000 deaths globally
Common symptoms: Abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain
Diagnosis: Pap test, HPV testing
Treatment: Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy
Prevention: HPV vaccination, routine screenings
Ovarian Cancer
Develops in the ovaries, responsible for producing eggs and hormones.
New Diagnoses Annually: Around 19,680 in the U.S. and more than 300,000 globally
Deaths Annually: Roughly 12,740 in the U.S. and roughly 200,000 globally
Common symptoms: Bloating, pelvic pain, frequent urination
Diagnosis: Ultrasound, CA-125 blood test
Treatment: Surgery, chemotherapy
Prevention: Risk-reducing surgery for high-risk women
Uterine Cancer (Endometrial Cancer)
Starts in the lining of the uterus.
New Diagnoses Annually: Approximately 67,880 in the U.S. and more than 400,000 globally
Deaths Annually: Around 13,250 in the U.S. and about 97,000 globally
Common symptoms: Abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain
Diagnosis: Endometrial biopsy, imaging tests
Treatment: Surgery, radiation, hormone therapy
Prevention: Maintaining a healthy weight, managing diabetes
Vulvar Cancer
Affects the vulva, the outer part of the female genital organs.
New Diagnoses Annually: Around 6,900 in the U.S. and over 45,000 globally
Deaths Annually: About 1,630 in the U.S. and roughly 17,000 globally
Common symptoms: Itching, pain, sores or lumps on the vulva
Diagnosis: Biopsy, imaging tests
Treatment: Surgery, radiation therapy
Prevention: HPV vaccination, routine check-ups
Vaginal Cancer
Occurs in the vagina, the canal leading from the cervix to the outside of the body.
New Diagnoses Annually: Roughly 1,890 in the U.S. and more than 14,000 globally
Deaths Annually: About 500 in the U.S. and roughly 8,000 globally
Common symptoms: Abnormal vaginal bleeding, discharge, or a lump
Diagnosis: Pelvic exam, biopsy
Treatment: Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy
Prevention: HPV vaccination
What is Causing the Rise in Certain Gynecologic Cancers?
Several factors contribute to the rising incidence of specific gynecologic cancers:
Obesity: A significant risk factor, particularly for uterine and ovarian cancers. Rising obesity rates have been linked to increased cancer risk.
HPV Infection: Persistent HPV infection is a major cause of cervical, vulvar, and vaginal cancers. In regions with lower vaccination rates, the prevalence of HPV-related cancers is increasing.
Reproductive and Hormonal Factors: Delayed childbirth, fewer pregnancies, and the use of hormone replacement therapy have been associated with an increased risk of some gynecologic cancers.
Screening Practices: Variations in screening rates and practices can influence trends in the incidence of gynecologic cancers.
Dispelling Myths About Gynecologic Cancers
Part of education involves debunking common fallacies including these four myths.
Myth 1: Gynecologic Cancers Only Affect Older Women
Morgan Newman, Cervivor’s Community Engagement Liaison, challenges this misconception. Diagnosed with metastatic and recurrent cervical cancer at just 24, Morgan emphasizes that gynecologic cancers can impact women of any age. “Being diagnosed with cervical cancer or any gynecologic cancer at any age can be an isolating experience, which is why I value Cervivor and the work they do,” she says. Her story highlights the importance of awareness and support for younger women facing these cancers.
Myth 2: Only Women with a Family History of Cancer Are at Risk
While genetic predisposition can play a role in some gynecologic cancers, such as ovarian cancer, lifestyle and environmental factors are also significant contributors. Many gynecologic cancers, including cervical, vulvar, and vaginal cancers, are primarily caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which is not related to family history. It’s important to understand that not all gynecologic cancers are linked to genetics.
Myth 3: Symptoms of Gynecologic Cancers Are Always Obvious
Contrary to popular belief, gynecologic cancers don’t always present obvious symptoms. For example, ovarian cancer is often called the “silent killer” because it may not cause noticeable symptoms until it has reached an advanced stage. When symptoms do occur, they are often vague – such as bloating or abdominal pain – and can easily be mistaken for other conditions.
Similarly, cervical, vulvar, and vaginal cancers, often linked to high-risk HPV strains, may not show obvious early symptoms. While some symptoms, like abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, can be more apparent, others may be subtle, such as pelvic or abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, appetite changes, or alterations in bowel or bladder habits.
Dr. Allison E. Garda, M.D., a radiation oncologist at the Mayo Clinic, underscores the importance of being proactive about your health: “I would encourage people to be advocates for their health as they know their bodies best. If they’re not getting the answers to their concerns or questions, they should find a physician who is willing to work with them to address their concerns.” Routine screenings remain crucial for early detection and improving treatment outcomes.
Myth 4: Gynecologic Cancers Are Always Fatal
Gynecologic cancers, including cervical cancer, don’t have to be fatal if detected and treated early. Many women not only survive but thrive after treatment. Julie Groob, a member of the Cervivor community, is a testament to this resilience. She shares, “As a recurrent cervical cancer survivor, I know firsthand that survival is linked to early detection. I’m monitored every three months for recurrence, and that close monitoring has caught recurrences at their earliest stages, saving my life. It hasn’t been easy, but early detection is key to positive outcomes. It’s been 12 years of battling both non-invasive and invasive cancer, but I’m still here, enjoying every special moment life has to offer.” The mission is clear: to make cervical cancer and other gynecologic cancers increasingly rare diagnoses.
Supporting Fertility Rights for Gynecological Cancer Patients
Gynecological cancer can have a profound impact on fertility, making it essential to support various pathways to parenthood. Halley Pollack, Co-Founder and Executive Director of the Bright Spot Network, highlights the importance of supporting families navigating cancer diagnoses. “According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, 1 in 5 newly diagnosed cancer patients has a minor child, and there are approximately 3 million U.S. minors living with a parent who has or had cancer,” explains Haley. She adds, “Cancer is on the rise among 18- to 49-year-olds, an age demographic that spans childbearing years.”
Tamika further emphasizes the importance of normalizing different fertility journeys. “As someone who advocates for the fertility rights of cancer patients, I want to normalize different fertility journeys, including gestational surrogacy, embryo donation, and adoption. Cancer takes so much from us – it shouldn’t close off the pathways to parenthood as well.”
Aiding families affected by cervical cancer in building their families is crucial. That’s why we’re proud to support The Virginia “Ginny” Marable Cervivor Baby Gift Fund, which provides a financial gift to cervical cancer patients and survivors seeking to grow their families through their pathway to parenthood. Your contribution can help make it a reality for them. Join us in empowering Cervivor community members to build their families and create a brighter future.
Saying Goodbye to Gynecological Cancer Stigmas
“As a Cervivor myself, I’ve witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of stigma surrounding gynecologic cancers. For too long, shame and silence have prevented women from seeking life-saving medical attention and support. But we’re changing that narrative,” states Cervivor’s Chief Diversity Equity and Inclusion Officer Kimberly Williams.
Twenty years ago, Cervivor founder Tamika Felder dared to speak out against the status quo, creating Cervivor to shatter stigmas and cultivate a supportive community for survivors. Her courage sparked a movement. Today, through our Cervivor Schools, we’ve empowered hundreds of Ambassadors to amplify awareness and eliminate stigma.
It’s time to say goodbye to the silence and hello to a future where everyone impacted by gynecological cancers and cervical cancer, in particular, feels empowered to prioritize their health, free from fear and judgment. Join Cervivor in this critical mission.
Join the Movement to End Gynecologic Cancers this GCAM (and Every Month)!
Cervivor plays a pivotal role in the fight against gynecologic cancers. We are not just a support network; we are a community that empowers survivors, advocates for change, and educates the public about the importance of prevention and early detection. Here’s how we’re making a difference:
Support and Empowerment
Cervivor provides a safe space for survivors to share their stories, connect with one another, and find solace in knowing they are not alone. Through our online platforms, events, and resources, we empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being.
Education and Awareness
Our organization is dedicated to spreading awareness about gynecologic cancers, with a special focus on cervical cancer prevention. We offer educational resources, campaigns, and outreach initiatives to ensure that women and individuals are informed about the risks, prevention, and early detection methods. Help Cervivor in spreading the word by utilizing the 2024 GCAM Social Media Toolkit.
Advocacy
Cervivor is at the forefront of advocating for policy changes and improved access to healthcare services. We work tirelessly to promote HPV vaccination, regular screenings, and equitable healthcare for all. Dr. Gabby Darville–Sanders, our Strategic Director of the National HPV Vaccination Roundtable, emphasizes the importance of our advocacy efforts: “Raising awareness and promoting prevention strategies are essential steps in reducing the burden of gynecologic cancers.”
If you or someone you know has been affected by gynecologic cancer, join our community. Breaking the stigma on gynecologic cancers starts with awareness, education, and community support. This GCAM, help Cervivor in our mission to empower those impacted by cervical cancer, advocate for better healthcare, and eliminate the stigmas surrounding these cancers. Together, we can make a lasting impact and pave the way for a healthier, more informed future for all.
