Today we’d like to introduce you to Kelly Cannova.
Hi Kelly, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Nothing could have been further from my mind when I heard the news. My mom had always been the picture of health. She went to the doctor for what she thought was a bladder infection, and within 48 hours, a diagnosis of advanced ovarian cancer had turned our worlds upside down.
As soon as I learned of my mom’s diagnosis, I knew I couldn’t be someone who simply hoped others would solve the problem. I wanted to contribute in whatever way I could to finding a cure. I reached out to The University of Kansas Cancer Center and found that, although they do have researchers dedicated to ovarian cancer, there is little funding for that area. Being a registered nurse, I decided to change that, and put the wheels in motion for the OVERRUN Ovarian Cancer 5K and 1 Mile Run/Walk, pledging to raise funds immediately and directly benefit ovarian cancer research.
My friend Kristi O’Keefe had a similar reaction when she received the news, two years earlier, about her sister. Her sister hadn’t been feeling well and went to her doctor for abdominal pain. Within days, she had a confirmed diagnosis of advanced ovarian cancer at age 45. They were stunned. Upon learning of Kristi’s sister’s diagnosis, I asked her to help.
Since then, we have formed The OVERRUN Ovarian Cancer Foundation, a foundation dedicated to changing the face of ovarian cancer by funding much needed research, awareness and patient advocacy.
The majority of the funds raised from the 5K race are pledged to The University of Kansas Cancer Center and their ovarian cancer research efforts, led by Dr. Andy Godwin. We met with Dr. Godwin in the early planning stages of the race and were immediately impressed with his knowledge, experience and passion for his work. Once we visited his lab, we had no doubt that we were putting our efforts into the right hands. We left energized and determined to make the run succeed. Our first year, in 2012, was amazing. People came out of the woodwork. We had 750 runners and walkers that year. It proved to us that there was definitely a need for this kind of support in the KC area.
Soon after that first OVERRUN, we added two more women, to our board- Kelley Rast and Rae Latourneau- both of whom have also been personally impacted by this devastating disease. We often say it’s a true labor of love for all of us. We have run through sun, rain, and a virtual Covid year in 2020. We have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support for this overlooked and underfunded disease. This year will mark the 15th Anniversary of The OVERRUN Ovarian Cancer 5K and 1 Mile Run/Walk. It’s hard to believe it’s been this long- we’re busy planning a big celebration!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Yes, there were definitely struggles when I first started the foundation. It was overwhelming. I was creating something from scratch and I had no idea if we would receive any support.
I remember sitting down with my kids and husband one night and telling them I didn’t think I could do it. I know it sounds crazy, but at that moment I felt a gentle push on my back- like someone, somewhere was urging me to keep going. So I changed my mind and shortly after that, I spoke with Kristi, who was willing to help!
Our first year, in 2012, was amazing. People came out of the woodwork. We had 750 runners and walkers that year. It proved to us that there was definitely a need for this kind of support in the KC area.
The first race was not completely smooth sailing. We definitely had some hiccups, but each year has gotten easier. Now we have a strong following of over 1200 participants and volunteers!
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Our 5K & 1 Mile Run/Walk is more than just another race- it’s a day of hope, support and awareness. We have many teams that come out to support or honor a loved one. We also provide a HOPE Tent for our ovarian cancer survivors, where they can sit and talk with others who may be going through similar experiences.
We are known for having an incredible finish line after party, featuring community vendors, food, DJ entertainment, kids’ activities and FUN! Having Kelly Eckerman from KMBC-TV as our incredible MC, truly sets the tone for the day.
What sets The OVERRUN apart is that we are a completely volunteer-led program. Every dollar raised goes directly toward supporting ovarian cancer research, awareness and patient advocacy.
Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
Our main fundraiser, The OVERRUN Ovarian Cancer 5K & 1 Mile Run/Walk will take place on September 27th in Overland Park as we celebrate our 15th Anniversary.
Please join us for this special day of community, support, and hope. Men women and children of all abilities are welcome to participate. We look forward to celebrating with you and making this milestone event our best yet!
Registration link: https://runsignup.com/Race/KS/OverlandPark/TheOVERRUNOvarianCancer5K
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.overrunovariancancer.com
- Instagram: Overrun 5k
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OVERRUNOvarianCancer
