By Annette Pinder 

When Kathleen Maxian was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2009, she learned firsthand how frightening and isolating the disease could be. Although she received outstanding medical care, she realized that many patients and their families needed more—trusted information, emotional support, and a community that truly understood their journey. 

Determined to make that happen, Maxian founded the Ovarian Cancer Project (OCP) in 2012. What began as one woman’s vision has grown into a lifeline for thousands of Western New Yorkers affected by ovarian and other gynecologic cancers. Today, under the leadership of Executive Director Marianne Hoover, the organization continues to expand its reach through education, advocacy, wellness programs, and compassionate support. 

“It has been one of life’s greatest privileges to walk alongside so many incredible women. Their strength, courage, and resilience have inspired me every step of the way,” says Kathleen Maxian. 

Education remains at the heart of the organization’s mission. Because the symptoms of gynecologic cancers can be subtle and easily mistaken for other conditions, OCP works to increase awareness through community presentations, health fairs, educational resources, and partnerships across WNY. For those facing a diagnosis, the organization offers far more than information.  

“It’s support, it’s love, it’s positivity. It’s taking a moment — cliché or not — to stop and smell the flowers, because life is way too quick,” says Mary Ellen Robb, who was 50 when she was diagnosed with Stage 3C ovarian cancer. Introduced to the support group by her older sister in January 2025, she quickly realized the value of connecting with other survivors who understood what she was going through. Today, Mary Ellen participates in OCP support groups, coffee talks, monthly activities, and the organization’s retreat, finding friendship, encouragement, and a place to share experiences with others who truly understand the journey.  

The OCP also brings the community together through its annual Empowering Steps Walk, where survivors, families, healthcare professionals, and supporters gather to celebrate resilience, honor loved ones, and raise awareness of gynecologic cancers. 

“Community creates hope. When someone faces a gynecologic cancer diagnosis, knowing that there are people who understand, listen, and walk alongside them can make all the difference. We want every person to know they are not alone,” says Marianne Hoover. 

Perhaps the organization’s greatest achievement cannot be measured by dollars raised or programs offered. It lies in the friendships formed, the fears eased by a mentor’s reassuring voice, and the comfort of knowing someone understands. As the OCP looks to the future, its mission remains as meaningful as ever: to educate and ensure that every person facing gynecologic cancer has access to trusted information, compassionate support, and a community that walks beside them every step of the way. 

Learn about the Ovarian Cancer Project’s mission, goals, events, programs, ways to get involved, and how to donate at https://ovariancancerproject.org. To learn more, call 716-458-0382 or email info@ovariancancerproject.org.