Grief and Loss Support with Teresa: A Beacon of Hope at NOCC

At the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC), our mission is strengthened by exceptional individuals like Teresa Quinn, a Social Work Consultant who joined us in 2023. Teresa’s personal connection to ovarian cancer and her professional expertise drive her leadership of NOCC’s Grief and Loss Program, offering compassionate support for those grieving the loss of a loved one to ovarian cancer.

In 2025, this program will include two 6-week sessions with weekly group meetings, guided activities, and tailored resources to help participants cope, understand the grieving process, and connect with a supportive community.

Pictured: Teresa, NOCC’s Social Work Consultant, who leads the Grief and Loss Program, offering guidance and support to those navigating the challenges of ovarian cancer.

Teresa’s journey to NOCC

Teresa’s path to NOCC is deeply personal, shaped by her own experiences with loss and her professional background in social work. Her unique perspective allows her to bring both expertise and empathy to her role as a Social Work Consultant.

When did you start working with NOCC?

I started as a Social Work Consultant at NOCC in July 2023.

Could you share a bit about what initially attracted you to work with NOCC and how your background in social work influences your role here?

My attraction to NOCC was completely personal at the beginning. In October 2022, my husband’s aunt passed away from ovarian cancer. She was deeply involved in the ovarian cancer community in St. Louis and bravely faced many years of recurrences. She was like a second mother to my husband, and her loss was deeply felt.

When I was looking for part-time work, the NOCC job listing immediately stood out—it felt like a little nudge from Aunt Sandy to continue the work she cared so much about. My background in social work equipped me with the skills to support the organization, but it was my family connection and a bit of serendipity that brought me to NOCC specifically.

Supporting ovarian cancer survivors and families

The challenges faced by ovarian cancer patients and their families often go beyond physical health. Social workers like Teresa play a critical role in addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of the cancer journey. Here, Teresa shares her experiences and insights into how NOCC supports survivors and their loved ones.

In your experience, what are some of the most impactful ways social workers like yourself collaborate with medical teams to offer a comprehensive support system for ovarian cancer patients?

Social workers act as bridges, connecting survivors to tangible resources and offering emotional support to remind them they’re not alone. Cancer is a mind-body-spirit experience, and having someone on the team who can look at the full picture allows us to support survivors holistically.

What are some of the most common mental health challenges you encounter among ovarian cancer patients and their families? How does NOCC address these needs?

Cancer can be an isolating experience, even when surrounded by family, community, and medical teams. It often disconnects survivors from their own bodies due to the challenges of treatment and side effects. Common issues include anxiety, depression, isolation, and trauma.

NOCC’s commitment to holistic care is one of the reasons I was drawn to the organization. It’s not just about addressing the physical aspects of cancer—it’s about offering psychosocial support to meet survivors’ multifaceted needs.

Given your role in developing mental health resources, what types of support or interventions have you found to be most beneficial for ovarian cancer patients, and why?

Everyone’s needs are different, and they can change over time. We focus on building a toolkit of coping strategies, teaching communication and advocacy skills, and providing validation and guidance. It’s essential to tailor support to each individual.

I’m also a strong advocate for the power of silence and stillness. Sometimes, just being present with someone, without trying to fix or change anything, can be incredibly healing.

Understanding and coping with grief

A diagnosis of ovarian cancer can bring uncertainty and anxiety. With her compassionate approach, Teresa offers words of encouragement and strategies to help those newly diagnosed find strength, support, and hope for the road ahead.

What would you say to someone newly diagnosed with ovarian cancer who is feeling overwhelmed and anxious?

I often share this phrase: “Open heart, with a backbone.” Stay soft and gentle with yourself while leaning on the skills that keep you grounded, like advocating for your needs and setting healthy boundaries.

Lean on your loved ones and medical team, and remember—you don’t have to face this alone. You may not know what’s next, but support is always available.

Words of encouragement for ovarian cancer patients

A diagnosis of ovarian cancer can bring uncertainty and anxiety. With her compassionate approach, Teresa offers words of encouragement and strategies to help those newly diagnosed find strength, support, and hope for the road ahead.

What would you say to someone newly diagnosed with ovarian cancer who is feeling overwhelmed and anxious?

I often share this phrase: “Open heart, with a backbone.” Stay soft and gentle with yourself while leaning on the skills that keep you grounded, like advocating for your needs and setting healthy boundaries.

Lean on your loved ones and medical team, and remember—you don’t have to face this alone. You may not know what’s next, but support is always available.

Words of encouragement for ovarian cancer patients

Teresa’s work at NOCC shows us that ovarian cancer care goes beyond medical treatment—it’s also about providing emotional and psychological support that respects each person’s unique journey. Through her leadership in the Grief and Loss Program, she offers a space where participants can face their grief with understanding, support, and strength. We are thankful for Teresa’s commitment and the meaningful difference she makes in our community.

NOCC’s programs and resources

At the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition, we understand how overwhelming an ovarian cancer diagnosis can be. That’s why we offer a range of resources and support services to help you and your loved ones navigate this journey.