Carolyn's Ribbons of Hope
Honoring Family, Strength and Cancer Survivors
Carolyn Otte is a lifelong resident of Lincoln. In 2014, she discovered a small lump near her groin. At 55 years old, she was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. It was stage 3C, indicating advanced disease. For the next few years, Otte underwent treatment. She had surgery to remove the cancer and completed six rounds of chemotherapy. She also participated in a clinical trial for maintenance therapy. Today, 12 years after her initial diagnosis, she remains cancer free. She is monitored by her oncologist and undergoes routine testing.
Cancer has not only touched Otte, but several family members. Her mother, father, husband, mother-in-law, father-in-law and granddaughter have all been diagnosed with the disease. Additionally, Otte’s daughter was found to be BRCA positive, meaning she inherited a mutated gene that significantly increases the risk of developing cancer. She is currently undergoing preventative treatment.
Salute to Cancer Survivors is one way that we can acknowledge how much cancer has touched our lives. I’m just so grateful, every single day. So many of our family members had cancer and survived. We want to be part of this initiative so we can honor those who’ve experienced cancer and spread a message of hope for the future.”
— Carolyn Otte, Cancer Survivor
Bryan Health is saluting cancer survivors and raising funds for support programs by displaying ribbons at its three Lincoln campuses during National Cancer Survivors Month.
“Just like the color of these ribbons, everyone’s cancer journey is different,” said Valerie Hunt, executive director, Bryan Foundation. “It’s important to honor what individuals and families have gone through in their fight against cancer. These ribbons give us a chance to visually show our support and celebrate their tremendous strength.”
Bridge of Courage at April Sampson Cancer Center
Cancer survivors, or loved ones of a cancer survivor, are encouraged to buy a ribbon to be placed at Bryan East Campus, Bryan West Campus and the April Sampson Cancer Center. Ribbons will feature the survivor’s name and be part of a colorful display at each location. Proceeds support local cancer patients and caregivers by funding wellness-focused activities like art, music, and support groups.
The ribbons at Bryan East Campus and Bryan West Campus will be placed on survivor trees outside the main entrances, while ribbons at the April Sampson Cancer Center will be displayed behind the building on the Bridge of Courage near the Garden of Hope and Healing.
For more information and to purchase a ribbon, visit www.BryanHealth.org/SaluteSurvivors.
