Indy Nonprofit Spreads Awareness, Support for Ovarian Cancer Fighters
The American Cancer Society estimates that 341 women died from ovarian cancer in 2024. The mortality rate is alarmingly high not because ovarian cancer is untreatable, but because it is so often detected too late. With no screening test and symptoms that mimic common ailments like bloating or menstrual discomfort, ovarian cancer is routinely overlooked.
That’s where Ovar’coming Together steps in to assist. Founded in 1996 by three Indianapolis women—Pam Faerber, Nancy Hines and Kai Binford—who were each diagnosed with ovarian cancer, the organization aims to ensure that no woman faces the disease alone or uninformed.
“These women recognized a serious gap in resources and awareness,” says Executive Director Bethanne Gruner Lugar. “They even had to fight to get recognition that there were symptoms at all.”
Symptoms like persistent bloating, pelvic pain and a quick feeling of fullness often get dismissed as benign. Many women attribute them to diet or menopause and delay seeking help. Even when they do, the medical community has historically been slow to recognize the signs.
“Too many women are told it’s nothing, just hormones or stress,” Gruner Lugar says. “But if the symptoms persist for two weeks or more, it’s time to advocate for yourself.”
Ovar’coming Together addresses this critical need for education and support through three core pillars: survivor support, education and advocacy.
For survivors, the nonprofit provides a lifeline at the time of diagnosis. Physicians across the state refer newly diagnosed patients to the organization, where they’re connected with other survivors and receive a “Hope Packet” full of resources. Survivors are also honored annually at events such as the Survivors Luncheon and the Turn the Canal Teal ceremony, which takes place each September and coincides with Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.
On the education front, the organization takes its message directly to nursing schools, civic groups, churches and anyone willing to listen.
“We recently visited a nursing program where students told us they had never been taught that ovarian cancer has symptoms,” Gruner Lugar adds. “That’s terrifying.”
Advocacy, both local and statewide, is also a key focus. The group meets with legislators, distributes symptom cards and brochures, and maintains a strong presence on social media to keep awareness circulating. Their outreach includes large-scale events such as the Indiana State Fair and their annual Run/Walk at Butler University.
Despite its far-reaching impact, Ovar’coming Together remains a small team—just Gruner Lugar, a part-time administrative assistant and a long-time volunteer whose wife passed away from the disease. Yet their impactful work continues to grow, bringing hope to the fight against ovarian cancer.
“We are small but mighty,” Gruner Lugar says. “Even folding 500 brochures is a big task for us, but it’s worth it if it helps one woman recognize a symptom in time.”
To get involved, donate, volunteer or access resources—including a downloadable symptom diary—visit ovariancancerin.org. Whether it’s sharing a social media post or helping fold brochures, every action brings more awareness and potentially saves more lives.
