Heather’s story: Ovarian cancer patient turned advocate and adventurer

Seventeen years after Heather saw her doctor about changes to her body, she continues to encourage others to do the same.  

This Ovarian Cancer Day on Monday 8 May her advice is clear, “I urge everyone not to be embarrassed about talking to your doctor about changes you may notice, about any signs and symptoms.”  

In 2007, Heather was a busy working mum of two with little time for exercise. She started to notice that the waistband of her favourite red skirt felt tight, that she was constantly racing to the bathroom, and was unusually tired.  

These symptoms persisted and, when she felt a firmness in her abdomen, she went straight to her doctor. Tests revealed a large tumour on her right ovary. This news left Heather feeling emotionally numb, and filled with questions about her prognosis and treatment.  

Shifting of her familiar world 

The following week, Heather underwent a total hysterectomy. In the days prior, she remembers feeling relieved that surgery was scheduled but also quite anxious about what lay ahead.  

“I went to the Cancer Council website and found it such a wonderful and reassuring source of information. It was a trusted source.” 

When the pathology results revealed stage one ovarian cancer, she cried with relief.  

Heather healed well and within three weeks was back working with her husband in their film production business. She was referred to a gynaecological oncologist who recommended a new five-year surveillance program that included regular scans and blood tests and physical check ups. 

Rediscovering adventure after treatment 

While recovering from surgery, Heather made a promise to herself to become fitter, braver and more adventurous. This decision would transform her life. She signed up for a 4km fun run with her children, a distance she had never run before. Little did she know where it would take her. 

Since then, running has become a defining part of Heather’s life with ultra marathons in extreme locations including the North Pole, Antarctica and the Sahara Desert. She’s also completed treks to Everest Base Camp, Mt Kilimanjaro, the Larapinta Trail, the Great Himalaya Trail and climbed mountains in Nepal.  

Heather documented her early journey facing cancer and beginning to run in her memoir, Adventurous Spirit, and is currently working on a second book that further explores her love of extreme ultra marathons and her life today as a cancer survivor and patient advocate.  

“Every year I choose a particular event to do, be it a trek, climb or ultra marathon, to continue to challenge myself and to raise awareness and funds for cancer research.” 

As Heather prepares for her next adventure trekking to Everest Base Camp with her daughter to support her son’s Everest climb, she’s come to realise it can often be those very low points in our lives that become our most profound turning points. 

Making a difference through advocacy 

At first, Heather felt her diagnosis was primarily a personal journey. But soon realised that she could help others by talking more openly about her experience. 

“If I can be one of the voices that can help raise awareness, then I know this will help save lives. For if cancer is found in the early stages, it is much more treatable.” Heather emphasises. 

Since then, Heather has shared her message in interviews, speaking engagements, podcasts and on social media platforms. It means so much that she’s encouraged others to see their GP regarding their signs and symptoms, and this has led to an early diagnosis.  

“Probably four or five ladies have contacted me personally to thank me for sharing my story. And this fuels my purpose even more,” she says. 

Looking ahead, Heather wants to continue encouraging people to make health their priority. 

“It’s lovely to feel that you’re making a difference, whether it’s in a small way or a significant way. That we can be here for each other, and be really well supported in our journey by the Cancer Council.” 

Learn more about ovarian cancer symptoms.

If you are affected by cancer and need information or support, please call Cancer Council’s free and confidential support line on 13 11 20.