It is time we stop the loss of mothers, sisters, daughters, wives and girlfriends from ovarian cancer so I have decided to do something about it. On September 15-18, 2005 I will be climbing in the HERA Ovarian Cancer Climb for Life. I will be climbing in recognition of my friend Sean Patrick who has been fighting this disease for 7 years and for all of the women battling this disease and the 25,500 women who will be newly diagnosed this year. Can I count on your support?

The money raised will go directly to support research for early detection of ovarian cancer and new directions in treatment and to aide women and their families battling this disease as well as to support awareness and wellness programs.

On the research front, our most pressing task is to develop a reliable early detection test for ovarian cancer- like the Pap smear for cervical cancer. Because we don't yet have a reliable test for ovarian cancer, 78% of the women diagnosed this year will be diagnosed after the disease has spread when the chance for survival is low.

Money raised last year went to support the development of a DNA test for early detection. This promising research is being done by Dr. Brant Wang of Johns Hopkins. Money was also used to establish support programs to pay for such things as childcare and travel for those undergoing treatment. Due to the generosity of our sponsors, close to 95% of the money raised last year went to research and programs.

We can't stop there! Promising new research needs continued support to speed the development of a test and more effective treatment. That is why I am asking you to sponsor me in this Ovarian Cancer Climb for Life. If we support vital research, more lives can be saved. And if we can help more people undergoing treatment, we can improve quality of life for them and their families

If you could help with a donation of _______, I would really appreciate it. Your contribution will help make a difference in the fight against ovarian cancer.

As I climb in the HERA Ovarian Cancer Climb for Life, it will be with the special knowledge that you have shared in my commitment to help find a cure so that more mothers, daughters, sisters, wives and girlfriends do not have to die from this disease.

Best,