Skip to main content
Stories of Inspiration

Climbing for a Cause: Ovarian Cancer Survivors Conquer Kilimanjaro

By June 28, 2024October 7th, 2024No Comments

The National Ovarian Cancer Coalition’s Team Teal is embarking on an extraordinary journey to take hope to new heights. On July 9, 2024, a team of ovarian cancer survivors, caregivers, and loved ones will begin their trek to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa. This inspiring expedition aims to provide hope to those living with ovarian cancer, raise awareness, and gather funds to support the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition.

A Personal Mission

“I am participating in the HOPE to New Heights Mount Kilimanjaro trek with the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition for the 29 women that I have personally known who have passed away from ovarian cancer,” says Mandi, a Team Teal participant and 15-year ovarian cancer survivor. “I will climb for them because they can’t. I’ll also climb for me, to remind myself of my beating heart, the breath in my lungs, and the gift of life I have been blessed with.”

Dedicated Team

The Mount Kilimanjaro team is composed of ovarian cancer survivors, caregivers, and family members. They are dedicated to raising awareness and funds in support of NOCC’s vision – to one day live in a world where no person loses their life to ovarian cancer. These advocates have spent countless hours training mentally and physically. They are gearing up for their ambitious 19,341-foot uphill trek through five unique climate zones. With each step, they inspire strength for ovarian cancer survivors around the globe.

The National Ovarian Cancer Coalition is thrilled to partner with climb leader Sean Swarner of Swarner Expeditions. Swarner is a two-time cancer survivor and the only survivor to summit the tallest peaks on each of the seven continents.

Follow the Journey

Follow the journey of our eight Team Teal hikers on social media @nocc_teamteal as they take hope to new heights! To check out our athletes’ incredible stories or donate, visit their Team Teal page at https://p2p.onecause.com/newheights24.

Make a donation

Contact us

Find a support group

Keep up with NOCC news and events