In an effort to raise awareness about ovarian cancer and support research to find a cure, the Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation is hosting the first-ever Turn the Towns Teal Campaign in various regional communities including Sea Isle City. On Sunday, August 31, volunteers will be tying teal ribbons around trees that will remain throughout September, which is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

Awareness is currently the most important factor in the fight against ovarian cancer. Though hardly known, it is the fourth leading cause of cancer death among women, affecting 1 out of every 55 women. However, when detected early, the survival rate is 90-95 percent. The Sandy Rollman Cancer Foundation advocates for early diagnostic testing and more effective treatments, and raises funds to advance

The Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation, Inc. is a non-profit, 501c3 organization created as a tribute to the life, character, and immense strength of Sandy Rollman. Sandy passed away from advanced ovarian cancer in May 2000. Prior to diagnosis, Sandy experienced many textbook symptoms. Her symptoms were whispering only no one was listening. The tragic result was that Sandy never had a chance against ovarian cancer.

Her sister, Adriana Way, and her nurse, Robin Cohen, decided to keep Sandy’s memory alive while trying to prevent other women from having to endure the same pain she did. “It is in Sandy’s memory and the memory of all women who have succumbed to this insidious disease, that we have dedicated our efforts to help conquer ovarian cancer,” say Robin and Adriana. “Sandy Rollman was a fighter in the truest sense of the word. It would have been a mistake for us to just give up.”