OCT's Author
Ruthie R. Reid, MOT, OTR/L, CSRS
-Doctor of Occupational Therapy, University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences, pending graduation in April 2023
-Master of Occupational Therapy, Rockhurst University, 2017
-Bachelors of Science in Exercise and Sports Science: Health & Wellness Track (Honors), Rockhurst University, 2014
Hello! Welcome to Ovarian Cancer Thrivers (OCT)! I'm so glad that you are here! Thank you for taking the time to explore this website. You are here, reading this, which is a testimony of your commitment to prioritizing the health of your mind and body to live your life to the fullest! My goal is to use my knowledge to provide evidence-based and evidence-informed information on topics that are important to you. On this site, you will find articles, tips, tutorials, and links to credible sources for health information. Please give me feedback on topics you would like to learn more about so that we can grow and heal together. I am here for you!
My Story
I am a wife, mother, and Occupational Therapist. I was pursuing my Master in Occupational Therapy when I was diagnosed with Stage 1C1 ovarian cancer. I was in my early thirties, and as you can imagine, the news changed my life and my family's. I am thankful that I can share that I have lived the last six years with no evidence of disease. However, the journey here has not been easy. After undergoing several surgeries and aggressive chemotherapy, I understand that recovery is not complete at the end of treatment and rehabilitation.
The emotional, physical, and mental effects of treatment can be enduring and exhausting. Additionally, survivors have many unfulfilled needs, and the road to recovery can feel lonely. Therefore, I decided to create this website to support and empower ovarian cancer survivors so that we can thrive rather than merely survive!
We feel better when our mind, body, and spirit are in balance. I am thrilled that we have this opportunity to be our own advocates and explore topics that will help us engage in activities we value and improve our overall quality of life! I am dedicated to learning with you, so let me know the topics you want to learn more about. This is a safe space, so let's cast aside all stigmas and support each other as we work toward renewing our minds and body. Join me on this journey of health and wellness, and let's prioritize what's important. I am so happy to have you on board!
Contact
We're always looking for new and exciting opportunities. Let's connect!
"My mission in life is not merely to survive; but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor and some style."
-Maya Angelou