While all cancer is awful, the troubling thing with ovarian cancer specifically is that it can go for quite a long time without being detected.
According to the Mayo Clinic, when ovarian cancer first develops, more often than not there are very few, if any, noticeable symptoms. If there are symptoms, they’re usually pretty common, such as cramping, bloating, fatigue and back pain. There’s a reason the cancer’s been dubbed “the silent killer.”
This Thursday, August 7, Hearing the Ovarian Cancer Whisper (HOW), a Florida-based organization that helps fund research, raise awareness and help women in need, hosts a special luncheon at Arthur & Sons (203 Bridgehampton-Sag Harbor Turnpike) in Bridgehampton, “Speak Up and Speak Loud.”
Led by Louise Altese-Isidori, a survivor of the disease, and her husband Joe, owner and executive chef of the Bridgehampton-based resto, the luncheon (and preceding silent auction) will not only help raise money for HOW, but will help spread knowledge of ovarian cancer via firsthand accounts from several of the organization’s advocates.
Louise, who was diagnosed with stage 4B high-grade serous ovarian cancer around Christmastime of last year has been in remission since early June.
“Each year approximately 22,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer and over half will die of the disease,” according to a statement from the organization. “One in 70 women in the United States will develop ovarian cancer. This insidious disease is called the “Whisper Killer” because the symptoms are so subtle that the disease usually goes undetected until it is often too late for successful treatment.”
Set to occur on the restaurant’s Amalfi Terrace, the event kicks off at noon with a welcome reception and silent auction. Items up for bidding include a Chanel handbag, dinner at Mary Lou’s in Montauk, a Yankee game, a wine experience at Wölffer Estate Vineyards, a visit to Gurney’s Resort and Seawater Spa, a package to Club Pilates in Southampton, plus much more. According to a press release from the restaurant, there will also be an exclusive trunk show hosted by Italian brand PESERICO and Therapy Life & Style Southampton will offer a forever jewelry table. Guests will also be treated to a swag bag chock full of goodies from Pallini, Surf Gypsy, Vintage Havana and more! All attendees are encouraged to wear teal, in honor of the official color supporting ovarian cancer research. Luncheon will start at 1 p.m. featuring some signature Italian specialties from the just-over-a-year-old eatery.
Tickets are $250 per person and guests must RSVP by today.
“Not only will you expand your palate with exceptional Italian dining in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, but your knowledge of ovarian cancer will also grow,” Louise says, “… which could save your life or that of your loved one. Listen to your body. Speak up and speak loud.”
If you can’t swing the event but would still like to donate to the cause, click here.
