Ovarian Cancer Quilt

National Cancer InstituteFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, Wednesday, May 14, 1997, NCI Press Office, Susan Lowell Butler

WHAT: Ovarian cancer survivors will unveil the Ovarian Cancer Quilt, created by patients and family members throughout the country to support the women who are battling this devastating form of cancer and to increase public awareness of the disease. Survivors will share their stories; physicians and legislators will discuss hopes and plans for the future. WHO:- Congresswoman Patsy Mink (D-HI), sponsor of major research advancing ovarian cancer research.

- Drs. Eddie Reed and Elise Kohn, leading ovarian cancer physicians and researchers at the National Cancer Institute, NIH

- Quilt creators, Shirlee Mohiuddin and Nancy LeGendre

- Susan Lowell Butler, ovarian cancer survivor and organizer of the event.

WHEN:2:30 p.m., Monday, May 19, 1997 WHERE:National Institutes of Health, Warren G. Magnuson Clinical Center, 10 Center Drive (Building 10), 14th Floor Auditorium BACKGROUND: The quilt was conceived by ovarian cancer survivor Shirlee Mohiuddin, who shared her idea with others on the Internet. Shirlee also heard from fabric artist Nancy LeGendre, whose mother died of ovarian cancer and who volunteered to help prepare the quilt for display. Women nationwide responded -- and continue to respond -- with squares. From NIH, the quilt will go to other cities around the country. NOTE: A reception will follow the presentation of the quilt. Interview opportunities are available then or in the days before and after the event. For maps and information on film crew parking, call the NCI press office at (301) 496-6641.