Suffolk ovarian cancer survivor urges women not to ignore warning signs
Doctors at Northwell Health say Cathy Brockhoff was younger than many ovarian cancer patients, underscoring the importance of recognizing symptoms even before menopause.
What began as stomach discomfort and bloating for Coram resident Cathy Brockhoff ended with an ovarian cancer diagnosis that changed her life.
“It came out of the blue,” Brockhoff said. “I woke up on Easter morning of 2023 with a stomach ache, hoping it was indigestion or something to that extent. It didn't get any better.”
The then-47-year-old mother was eventually diagnosed with stage 3 ovarian cancer. After undergoing an eight-hour surgery to remove the mass and completing months of chemotherapy, Brockhoff is now cancer-free.
“I still can't believe it's been three years,” she said. “The journey was hard. My husband always said one step at a time was the only way I was going to get through it, and I did.”
Doctors at Northwell Health say Brockhoff was younger than many ovarian cancer patients, underscoring the importance of recognizing symptoms even before menopause.
Dr. Antoinette Sakaris, a gynecologic oncologist with Northwell Health, says common warning signs of ovarian cancer include bloating, feeling full quickly while eating, and persistent abdominal pain. Those symptoms can often be mistaken for gastrointestinal issues, leading some patients to delay seeking medical care.
“If the symptoms persist, continue to pursue the issue,” Sakaris said.
Now cancer-free, Brockhoff is sharing her story in hopes of raising awareness and encouraging early detection.
“I'm healthy and I'm going strong, and my daughter's in college and we get to enjoy her games,” Brockhoff said. “I'm lucky I can sit here today and talk to you.”
