Shearathon for Cora kicks off

Thousands of sheep will be shorn today in a bid to raise money for a woman's fight against cancer.

The Shear for Cora fundraiser, which began early this morning, hopes to raise as much as possible for Marlborough woman Cora McConnell who is battling Ovarian cancer.

Organised by Earl and Lisa Paewai and Freddy and Nikita Gane, and hosted at their 824-hectare beef and sheep farm in Havelock, Kaituna Ridges on Readers Rd, they aim to see 5000 sheep shorn over 24 hours.

Cora was diagnosed with Ovarian cancer eight years ago and has fought not just to stay alive, but to also raise awareness of a disease known as “the silent killer.”

In New Zealand one person is diagnosed with ovarian cancer every day and five die every week.

Cora has been undergoing IOZK-Immunotherapy in Cologne, Germany. The treatment mobilises the body’s own immune response, specifically targeting tumour growth.

Talking about her diagnosis on social media, Cora says she wants her story to help save others.

“I have been a closed book about my health until now as I am a very private person when tragedy strikes.

I have now got my head around the demons that kindly come with a cancer diagnosis.

But if I can save one woman from having to go through what I’ve been through then I feel I have raised awareness about this insidious disease called cancer.”

While ill herself, Cora had been nursing her mum through lung cancer, a fight she sadly lost.

Cora says none of what she has been through is easy on anyone.

“I have been on this roller coaster for eight years now and believe me it’s not been easy on myself, my family, or my friends. But together we are making the very best of a bad situation.”

You can watch the Shearathon live on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088117779266

To donate visit “Cancer took my Mum’s life this year, it CAN’T take mine too” - Givealittle

Ovarian cancer symptoms

The symptoms of ovarian cancer are often not obvious and can be confused with other non-cancerous conditions.

· Signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer may include:

· a swollen or bloated tummy (abdomen)

· always feeling full

· discomfort, pressure, or pain in the tummy or pelvic area

· change in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhoea)

· feeling very tired (fatigue)

· kidney or bladder problems, such as needing to pee more often

· abnormal vaginal bleeding

· weight changes for no reason

Often there are no signs of early-stage ovarian cancer.

Having these symptoms does not mean you have ovarian cancer, but it is important to get any changes checked by your doctor.