'Teal Together' Campaign Raises Awareness For Ovarian Cancer

Press release from Bridgewater Township:

Sept. 1, 2020

September is recognized nationally as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and in order to spread awareness, Mayor Matthew Moench will sign a proclamation declaring September “Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month” and teal ribbons will be displayed around the Municipal Complex.

The tradition of “Together Teal” campaign in Bridgewater dates back to 2014 through the vision and activism of Bridgewater resident Renee Edwards who, after being diagnosed with a Ovarian Cancer began a campaign to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of the disease. . Renee, a local business owner, passed away in 2016 however her husband, Jamie Edwards and daughters Leah Fitzpatrick and Jordan Edwards continue to honor her legacy by raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of Ovarian Cancer every September.

“September and the “Together Teal” campaign have become synonymous in Bridgewater Township over the years,” said Mayor Matthew Moench. “I hope residents will take time to spread awareness of Ovarian Cancer, contribute to its research and learn the early warning signs. I would like to thank Jamie Edwards and his daughters who continue display such impactful advocacy on behalf of Renee, and patients and victims everywhere.”

If residents would like to display a Teal ribbon on their property and help raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of Ovarian Cancer, please e-mail the “Together Teal” team at jpejr@aol.com. A volunteer will utilize contact-less delivery to bring a ribbon at your doorstep.

Ovarian cancer is a disease in which, depending on the type and stage of the disease, malignant cells are found inside, near, or on the outer layer of the ovaries. 1 in 78 women will develop Ovarian Cancer in their lifetime. Early signs and symptoms of Ovarian Cancer are subtle and often dismissed as other ailments. Symptoms include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, trouble eating, or the sudden need to empty your bladder.Survival rates drop rapidly as the cancer progresses and due to the non-specific nature of symptoms and lack of early detection testing, vigilance and communication with your health care provider is critical.

To learn more about Ovarian Cancer, please visit the National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Coalition at www.ovarian.org or contact the Bridgewater Heath Department at Health@BridgewaterNJ.gov.

This press release was produced by Bridgewater Township. The views expressed here are the author's own.