Hope Aguilar’s Ovarian Cancer Journey

In this episode of Teal Talk – An Ovarian Cancer Podcast, we sat down with survivor and advocate Hope Aguilar to share a story shaped by resilience, optimism, and the determination to help others facing ovarian cancer.

Hope’s experience spans more than a decade. Her path includes diagnosis, treatment, recurrence, and recovery. But above all, her story reflects the power of community and the importance of finding hope even in life’s most difficult moments.

What began as an unexpected diagnosis eventually became a journey that would shape Hope’s life and her commitment to supporting others in the ovarian cancer community.

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When everything changed

Like many diagnosed with ovarian cancer, Hope did not initially realize that the symptoms she was experiencing were connected to the disease.
When she finally sought medical care, the diagnosis came quickly.

“The journey started in December 2011 with a late diagnosis of ovarian cancer.”

Her cancer was identified as high-grade serous ovarian cancer, an aggressive form of the disease that often requires intensive treatment. Surgery was followed by months of chemotherapy, including intraperitoneal chemotherapy delivered directly into the abdomen.

“I went through the surgery, the debulking, the total abdominal hysterectomy, and then the five gruesome months of IP chemo treatment.”

Those early months were incredibly challenging. Yet during that time, Hope found strength in the people around her.

Friends and family checked in daily, offering encouragement and support as she navigated treatment.

“Just knowing that there were so many people praying for me that there were so many people hoping that I was going to get past this.”

Stories like Hope’s highlight why ovarian cancer awareness remains so important. Many women are diagnosed at later stages because the symptoms can be subtle or easily overlooked.

Finding strength in resilience

Throughout her experience with ovarian cancer, Hope discovered just how much resilience she carried within her.

When asked what the journey had taught her about herself, her answer was simple.

Resilience.

Hope attributes that strength to several important influences in her life, including her upbringing, her faith, and her time serving in the military.

She describes it as a combination of life experiences that helped prepare her to face cancer.

“I call it the four-fecta… I was raised by a single mother. I have such a strong faith in God. I was in the military, and my name is Hope.”

Even during difficult moments, Hope’s outlook remained rooted in optimism. Rather than focusing on fear or uncertainty, she chose to move forward one day at a time.

For many ovarian cancer survivors, that mindset becomes an important part of navigating treatment and life after diagnosis.

Discovering the ovarian cancer community

In the early days of her diagnosis, Hope’s focus was simply on getting through treatment. It was only later that she began connecting with organizations working to support ovarian cancer survivors.

Her first experience with NOCC came through one of the organization’s community events.

“My first time was in 2014 because I was able to be a vendor, if you will, and sell some of my books at the event.”

That event was part of NOCC’s Together in TEAL® Run/Walk, which brings together survivors, caregivers, and supporters across the country to raise awareness about ovarian cancer.

Years later, when Hope experienced a recurrence during the COVID pandemic, she reached out to NOCC while undergoing chemotherapy.

The organization responded with a gesture that meant more than she expected.

“They were like, we’re gonna send you food for a week.”

At a time when everyday tasks felt overwhelming, that support made a real difference.

“I had meals ready to go sent to me for at least a week.”

Turning experience into advocacy

After her first experience with ovarian cancer, Hope felt compelled to share her story with others.

She began by writing a book about her journey as a survivor.

“I wrote that book in 2014 as a way of giving back about sharing my journey.”

Over time, that passion for advocacy continued to grow. Hope connected with other survivors, raised awareness about ovarian cancer symptoms, and found new ways to amplify survivor voices.

Eventually, she realized there was another way to reach people.

“Why not start a podcast?”

That idea led to the creation of Teal Time with Hope, a podcast dedicated to sharing survivor experiences and raising awareness about ovarian cancer.

Through storytelling and advocacy, Hope continues to help others feel seen, heard, and supported.

A message for those facing a new diagnosis

Toward the end of our conversation, Hope shared what she would tell someone who has just received an ovarian cancer diagnosis.

Her advice centers on awareness, advocacy, and surrounding yourself with supportive people.

But the message she wants every survivor to hear is simple.

“You are not alone.”

At the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, that message is at the heart of everything we do. Through education, community programs, and survivor support, NOCC works to ensure that every person affected by ovarian cancer has access to the information and encouragement they need.

Conclusion

Hope Aguilar’s journey is one of resilience, humor, and determination. Her story reminds us that even during the most difficult moments, hope and community can make an incredible difference.

If you or someone you love is affected by ovarian cancer, the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition offers programs designed to help survivors and families navigate every stage of the journey.