Sue Straatman: Finding Hope and Connection Through Ovarian Cancer

When Sue Straatman was diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer in March 2009, she thought about three things she wanted to experience with her son: seeing him smile again, dancing at his wedding, and holding a grandchild.

Those goals became a source of hope during a time of uncertainty. Today, Sue is a stage IV ovarian cancer survivor who has experienced both an initial diagnosis and a recurrence. She has also become a dedicated supporter of fellow survivors through the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC).

Her story reflects NOCC’s Quality of Life pillar, which recognizes that living with ovarian cancer involves more than medical treatment. Emotional support, meaningful relationships, practical resources, and opportunities to enjoy life all matter.

Sue’s diagnosis and the support that changed her journey

In early 2009, Sue spent three months visiting her physician with severe stomach pain, constipation, and trouble eating. Her abdomen became so bloated that she bought maternity jeans for a party. When the pain became unbearable and she began vomiting, she went to the emergency room.

After several days of testing, doctors told Sue she had advanced ovarian cancer. Her 18-year-old son was sitting beside her. Having lost her husband less than three years earlier, Sue immediately worried about what would happen to their only child. Sue shared:

“Those 3 goals became my lifeline and my lifesaver.”

Her initial treatment involved two major surgeries, extended hospital stays, and chemotherapy. In May 2018, she experienced a recurrence and began another course of treatment. Sue managed side effects such as nausea and fatigue, learning the importance of asking questions, understanding medication instructions, and resting when needed.

Although she had strong support from family and friends, Sue still felt alone in parts of her experience.

“When I was diagnosed, I felt alone. Even though I had so much support from family and friends, they could not understand all I was feeling and going through.”

After researching ovarian cancer, Sue discovered NOCC and received a Teal Tote, now known as an ovarian cancer care package. She also connected with her local community and began meeting other survivors.

“Having the support from the ovarian cancer community and meeting other survivors has been invaluable.”

Those connections helped Sue find people who understood her experience in a way that even her closest loved ones could not.

Helping Other Survivors Feel Less Alone

Sue’s experience of isolation is one reason she now dedicates so much time to supporting others. She wants fellow survivors to know that they do not have to navigate ovarian cancer without people who understand.

She coordinates quarterly survivor brunches and an annual holiday social in the Chicagoland area. She also serves as a lead facilitator for an advanced cancer peer-to-peer support group and has helped organize community education programs in Indiana.

Her involvement includes distributing ovarian cancer care packages through healthcare systems, supporting Together in TEAL events, and spearheading the Indiana ovarian cancer license plate initiative.

“The feeling I had when I was first diagnosed of being alone, even though I had loved ones around me, is something I can’t forget. I don’t want anyone going through this to feel that way.”

For Sue, even a simple gathering can create a meaningful connection.

“Even just being in the same room or on the same Zoom call can hold so much meaning, knowing someone understands.”

NOCC offers peer support groups where survivors can share experiences, ask questions, and connect with others facing similar challenges. These groups complement medical care and provide a space for emotional support throughout different stages of ovarian cancer.

Living well with ovarian cancer

Sue’s quality of life is supported by family, friends, her medical team, fellow survivors, and community resources. She describes these relationships as a chain that helps hold her together.

“Put them all together, and they are all part of the beautiful chain that holds me together. Take away one of the links, and the outcome would have been much different.”

She also finds joy in reading, movies, traveling, and spending time at the beach, which she calls her “happy place.” Although arthritis in her hands has made crocheting painful, she continues to enjoy other interests and experiences.

For Sue, living well means having support for the whole person while making room for the activities and relationships that bring her joy.

Finding hope in new goals and everyday moments

Sue has now achieved the three goals she set in 2009. She has seen her son smile again, danced at his wedding, and held a grandchild. She has also made new goals for herself.

“Once I set those 3 goals for myself in 2009, I never stopped believing I would make it. I have met all those goals and have made more for myself.”

Her experience does not mean that hope guarantees a particular medical outcome. Instead, it shows how personal goals, relationships, and meaningful experiences can help someone find purpose while living with uncertainty.

Sue encourages others to notice small positive moments, whether that is a sunrise, a butterfly, or a smile from someone they love.

“Find something that is positive in your life right now. It doesn’t have to be something huge.”

Today, Sue continues to share the support that made a difference in her own life. Through survivor gatherings, peer support, and community education, she helps create opportunities for others to feel connected and understood.

If you or someone you love is affected by ovarian cancer, explore NOCC’s support services or connect with a peer support group to find resources that fit your needs.

Together, we move forward, stronger, informed, and supported.