After being diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer in 2009, Kathleen Maxian experienced the isolation and fear that comes with an ovarian cancer diagnosis and didn't know where to turn for reliable information. In 2012, Maxian founded the Ovarian Cancer Project to address this need. Since then, the Ovarian Cancer Project has become a trusted source of evidence-based information, guidance, and support.

The mission of the Ovarian Cancer Project is to educate and raise awareness about the symptoms and risk factors of gynecologic cancer. We aim to help residents of Western New York become more aware, leading to earlier detection and better health outcomes. We are working with community members, healthcare professionals, faith leaders, and philanthropic partners to educate individuals and promote a healthier community. We have launched a multi-channel education campaign, in multiple languages, with advertising on city buses, bus shelters, and social media.

The Ovarian Cancer Project partners with Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center, Kaleida Health Cancer Care, and the Piver Center at Sisters Hospital to offer support for gynecologic cancer survivors and their families. (An individual is considered a cancer survivor from the date of diagnosis through the rest of their life.) Visit our website at OvarianCancerProject.org to learn about our many support services.

Our core values are principles deeply embedded in the Ovarian Cancer Project’s culture and guide all our actions. We will not compromise them for convenience or short-term financial gain. They serve as the compass that guides us in decision-making and as a source of our distinctiveness, which cannot be compromised.

Hope – Through education, support, and advocacy.
Constancy – Lifelong support, beyond the treatment phase
Welcome – All are received with warmth, compassion, and understanding
Empowerment – Courage to live life to the fullest
Inspired – Motivated to move forward, to support others
Respect – All are recognized as unique, beautiful individuals whose input and participation is valued
Advocacy – We are a sisterhood that supports one another and the important message we share with the community. We strive to make a difference in the world.
Integrity – We are well-informed and share relevant, reliable information.
Compassion – We take the time to understand one another’s needs; we treat one another with kindness. Together we make a difference.

3rd Annual Empowering Steps Walk

Walking to Support ALL Experiencing Gynecologic Cancer

Team Leaderboard

Team Members