About HOPE
In August of 1999, Dr. Gary Johnson, M.D., a Gynecologic Oncologist at OU Medical Center saw a need for two women to connect with one another and share their feelings of fear, sadness and anxiety. These two women were Paula Nevius and Wendy Duncan. Together, they formed a bond and thru this fellowship, they found HOPE. Realizing the need for other ovarian cancer survivors to connect, they organized their first meeting in May of 2000 beginning with 6 women. In late 2001, HOPE became a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization. Currently, HOPE is reaching out across the entire State of Oklahoma, supporting women diagnosed with all gynecological cancer while educating others about the early warning signs and symptoms.
A Message of HOPE
We are glad you found us! We are here to offer friendship from others who know exactly what you are feeling at each step of your cancer journey. We have all been there from the initial shock/fear of diagnosis, to the anxiety of having your first chemo visit, all the way through losing your hair, maintaining your strength through the battle and finally to the finish line of chemo treatment. Our primary desire is your emotional and spiritual well-being throughout your journey.
What does HOPE offer?
Though support groups are not for everyone, they can improve your quality of life by providing emotional support, information and camaraderie. HOPE in Oklahoma offers you an outlet to share your joy, express your fears and reduce your anxiety and feelings of isolation.
HOPE in Oklahoma is funded through donations, memorials and grants and is run by survivor volunteers.
Programs
With the help of Physicians at the OU Medical Center, HOPE In Oklahoma provides educational programs about the disease and treatments. Our programs serve as fellowship and communication with each other.
Monthly meetings are held on the first Saturday of the month at 10:00 a.m. at the OU Physician's Building or other facility.
Retreats
HOPE in Oklahoma sponsors an annual Spring Retreat at a Bed and Breakfast and all survivors are encouraged to attend. This is a time and place where we walk through emotions and we find the friendship here to be the strongest bond ever experienced.
Survivors are also encouraged to attend an ovarian cancer retreat held annually in Missoula, Montana in September. Attendees develop special bonds with other survivors from all over the nation.
HOPE Night Out
A monthly social held at area restaurants for survivors, caregivers and those who have lost loved ones to gynecologic cancer. Survivors sit at one table, while caregivers sit at another to connect. Dates and places are published in the newsletters.
Newsletters
HOPE in Oklahoma publishes a quarterly newsletter with news, information about upcoming events, scheduled programs, resources, etc.
Educational Materials
HOPE in Oklahoma is dedicated to educating women regarding signs and symptoms of gynecological cancer and has available pamphlets, brochures, periodicals and other materials for use in presentations to medical and civic groups.
Candlelight Vigil and Walk of HOPE
A special program to remember and honor members who have died and a Walk to promote awareness of gynecological cancers is held annually in conjunction with Ovarian Cancer Awareness month in September.
MISSION STATEMENT
To offer women HOPE and to help them, their families and friends cope with their cancer diagnosis by uniting them with the medical community, providing education and support and encouraging them to maintain a positive attitude. To educate the women of Oklahoma regarding early signs and symptoms of gynecologic cancer, resulting in early detection.
Our focus is to support, educate, and encourage all women diagnosed with gynecologic cancer. It is important that they "never give up HOPE"! Everyone has the same initial thoughts of FEAR, SHOCK and CONFUSION. Have HOPE! You can get through this! There WILL be many wonderful blessings and positive changes occur through your journey. YES, life will go on; however, life will never be the same.
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"But those who HOPE in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."
-Isaiah 40:31
BOARD OF DIRECTORS/OFFICERS
Kari Baker, President
Lori Nicols, Vice President
Marilyn Dewey, Secretary
Melain Eavanson, Treasurer
Board Members:
Dawn Cowan
Emily McGray
Marianne Matzo
Odra Pratt
Jackie Meadows
Angie Norwood
MEDICAL ADVISORY BOARD
Dr. Joan Walker, M.D.
Dr. Robert Mannel, M.D.
Dr. Scott McMeekin, M.D.
Dr. Kathleen Moore, M.D.
Dr. Lisa Landrum
Honorary Board Member
Paula Nevius, Founder
