History
The Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation, Inc, is a non-profit, 501c3 organization created as a tribute to the life, character, and immense strength of Sandy Rollman. Sandy passed away from advanced ovarian cancer in May 2000. Prior to diagnosis, Sandy experienced many textbook symptoms. Her symptoms were whispering only no one was listening. The tragic result was that Sandy never had a chance against ovarian cancer.
Her sister Adriana Way and her nurse Robin Cohen decided to keep Sandy’s memory alive while trying to prevent other women from having to endure the same pain as she did. It is in Sandy’s memory and the memory of all women who have succumbed to this insidious disease, that we have dedicated our efforts to help conquer ovarian cancer. Sandy Rollman was a fighter in the truest sense of the word. It would have been a mistake for us to just give up.
Our Mission: To fight for those who are fighting, speak for those who have fallen silent and provide for those who are working towards the end of ovarian cancer.
Our Vision: A world without ovarian cancer.
Board of Directors
- Adriana Way, Co-Founder
- Robin Cohen, Co-Founder, CEO
- Christina Solomou, Treasurer
- Nan Barash
- Ellie Beisser
- Eileen Berta
- Jerry Bradley
- Elizabeth Fuscaldo
- Jan Heppe
- Terri Loring
- Jessica Smith
- Jonathan MacKenzie
- Kathy Monday
Medical Advisory Board
- Rachael Brandt– Certified Genetic Counselor Lankenau & Bryn Mawr Hospitals
- Dr. Thomas Dardarian
Bryn Mawr Hospital - Dr. Mitchell Edelson
Abington Hospital
- Dr. Paul Gilman
Lankenau Hospital Cancer Center - Dr. Norman Rosenbloom
Thomas Jefferson Hospital - Dr. Stephen Rubin
Fox Chase Cancer Center
Programs
The Sandy Rollman Foundation is proud to be a part of many different programs which all support the foundation in one way or another. We encourage you to participate! See the menu to the left to view our current programs.
If you are interested in participating in a program with us, please email our Program & Outreach Coordinator Jennie Nack at jennie@sandyovarian.org.
With a Little Help From Her Friends
Being diagnosed with ovarian cancer is an upsetting and overwhelming experience. Very often after diagnosis, women feel very alone. We’re here to help you.
The Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation works to offer support to ovarian cancer survivors and their families; educates the public about ovarian cancer; and raises funds to advance ovarian cancer research.
You do not have to take this journey alone. We have many resources to help you navigate your way. As you face many decisions and emotions along this roller coaster ride, we believe that knowledge is power.
Survivors Teaching Students: Saving Women’s Lives®
Through the Survivors Teaching Students: Saving Women’s Lives® (STS) program, Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation educates medical students about the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer.
The goal of the STS program is to increase the number of healthcare providers who recognize ovarian cancer symptoms and refer women suspected of ovarian cancer to gynecologic oncologists to diagnose and treat the disease in its earliest stages.
The Ovarian Cancer National Alliance (OCNA) works through its partner members and affiliates to offer the program at no charge in more than 90 U.S. medical schools. STS Volunteer Speakers are needed. If you would like to share your story, contact Robin Cohen at robin@sandyovarian.org
Survive & Thrive
No one should have to go through their journey with ovarian cancer alone. The Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation is striving to bring patients and survivors together through our program; Survive and Thrive. The purpose of this program is to provide a support group setting combined with sessions on health and wellness for ovarian cancer patients and those who have recently completed treatment.
Expertly trained professionals will provide lessons and activities for participants. Each session will cover a different topic. Session topics are meant to be fun and enjoyable for all! Session topics may include: Yoga, Nutrition, Skincare, Makeup tutorials, Cancer in the workplace, Outdoor therapy, Barre, Ask a health professional, Meditation, and more!
Participants must commit to the full program. Sessions will occur once a month for 6 months and are free. Each group will contain 7-10 participants, so participants can expect an intimate and engaging experience. This program is scheduled to begin in September 2017.
Dr. You
Through the Dr. You Program, Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation educates the general public about ovarian cancer through interactive skits. The program also teaches people how to navigate through the healthcare system and be their own best advocate. Let us know if you’re interested in bringing the Dr. You program to your business or school!
Staff
Robin Cohen, Co-Founder and CEO: robin@sandyovarian.org
Brooke Fishman, Events Assistant: brooke@sandyovarian.org
Trish Giardinelli, Executive and Office Assistant: trish@sandyovarian.org
Jennie Nack, Program & Outreach Coordinator: jennie@sandyovarian.org