"Art is not just ornamental, an enhancement of life, but a path in itself, ...a map to self-discovery." -- Gabrielle Roth

We carry within ourselves, our families and communities, among races and genders, nationalities and nations, stories that define who we are, how we see the world around us and how we see others. These stories are guideposts in our belief systems that help us navigate through life. When one is diagnosed with a serious illness all of our stories, our beliefs get called into question. Finding meaning and making sense can be difficult. But it is imperative for one's healing to do so.

Since the beginning of time, stories and art have helped cultures and individuals to understand the world and events around them. Writing down stories and making art have helped people to come to terms with what they are experiencing. Through writing or art, we begin to make sense of our circumstances. By reading and looking at the work of others, we begin to see and feel we are not alone. We find new ways of looking at things. We find inspiration and hope in these exchanges.

That is why we created a Personal Stories section on this Ovarian Cancer Website. We feel it is important to share your personal story or art about ovarian cancer with others. To submit a story simply click the button at the left. To share your art, please send a non-returnable 8x10 print of the work, with an explanation of what the work means to you to:

Dr. Richard Roden
JHMI, Ross 656
720 Rutland Avenue
Baltimore, MD 21205

Or send a digital image to roden@jhmi.edu