Navigating the healthcare system can be challenging for anyone, but it becomes especially difficult when facing a serious illness. Emily Campbell discovered this reality when her own health journey led her to create Not These Ovaries, an organization now making real strides in ovarian cancer research and education. Her experience has shaped a unique approach that’s bringing new energy and resources to a critically underserved area of women’s health.
Taking Control After Diagnosis
Most health advocacy stories begin with personal experience, and Emily’s is no exception. After facing ovarian cancer herself, she found a way to turn challenge into opportunity. “My personal journey with ovarian cancer led me to take charge of my own health—and ultimately save my life,” Emily shares, reflecting on what sparked her mission. That experience opened her eyes to gaps in the system that many women face. Instead of simply moving on after treatment, she created Not These Ovaries to address these issues directly. Now she’s working to ensure other women have better information, treatment options, and support than what was available to her.
Expanding Education About Risk Factors
One surprising aspect of Emily’s work involves correcting misconceptions about who gets ovarian cancer. “Most people don’t realize that ovarian cancer isn’t a single disease—it includes over 30 different types of tumors,” she points out. This diversity makes both awareness and research more complex. Emily noticed how cancer types affecting younger women often receive less attention. “Some, like low-grade ovarian cancer, affect women as young as 45, yet research and funding are still largely focused on older patients,” she explains. This insight drives her focus on making information more accessible to women before they face symptoms.
The solution, according to Emily, lies in better education. “We need to bridge that gap by increasing awareness, making information accessible, and ensuring younger women understand the risks and symptoms before it’s too late,” she says. Not These Ovaries has made this educational mission central to its work.
Funding Research That Makes a Difference
While many organizations spread resources across various programs, Emily took a different approach. “Unlike many nonprofits, Not These Ovaries ensures that 100% of donations go directly to research,” she explains. This funding model maximizes impact on the science that can save lives. The results are already showing promise. “We’ve already committed $200,000 to groundbreaking studies at Mount Sinai in Miami Beach, helping drive momentum toward new treatments,” Emily notes. These studies focus on addressing needs that larger research organizations might overlook. The outlook remains positive, with real progress on the horizon. “There’s a potential FDA-approved treatment on the horizon—one that could change the game for thousands of women who currently have limited options,” she shares. Each research dollar brings these treatments closer to reality.
Creating Community Around a Shared Experience
Beyond funding and education, Emily recognized the need for connection among women facing similar challenges. “One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that so many women share this experience—but they don’t always have a voice,” she reflects. Not These Ovaries helps bring these voices together. The organization has become a hub for both practical resources and personal support. “Through Not These Ovaries, we’re not only funding research but also making it easier for women to find support, resources, and advocacy,” Emily says. This community-building aspect complements the scientific mission. Emily believes progress happens when everyone contributes in their own way. “Whether it’s donating, sharing this message, or simply starting a conversation about ovarian cancer symptoms, everyone has a role to play,” she suggests. This inclusive approach invites broader participation.
For Emily, the mission goes beyond laboratory science to the human impact of better treatments. “Revolutionizing ovarian cancer research isn’t just about medicine—it’s about people, awareness, and action,” she explains. This perspective keeps the work focused on outcomes that matter. The path forward remains clear for those wanting to support the cause: “If you want to be part of the change, visit NotTheseOvaries.org and learn how you can help,” Emily invites. With growing support, she remains optimistic about what’s possible. “Every step forward brings us closer to the breakthrough we need.”
Connect with Emily Campbell on LinkedIn to stay updated on ovarian cancer research and advocacy.
