faq's

What is Belles with Balls NL? 

Belles with Balls NL is a committee of dedicated volunteers who plan fundraising events to raise money for Ovarian Cancer research and education in Newfoundland and Labrador. All of Belles with Balls NL profits stay in Newfoundland and Labrador. Money raised is used to support the Ovarian Cancer Research and Education (OCRE) Fund at Memorial University's Faculty of Medicine as well as other research projects, education, and awareness.

What is the Ovarian Cancer Research and Education (OCRE) Fund?

The OCRE Fund is housed at the Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University. As the name suggests, OCRE has two main goals, the first is to fund NL specific genetic research. The second is to provide an opportunity for Newfoundland and Labrador women to educate themselves on the hidden signs and symptoms of Ovarian Cancer.

What is the difference between Belles with Balls NL and OCRE?

Belles with Balls NL raises money through various fundraisers to support  the OCRE fund, we are not a registered non profit and as a result can not provide charitable receipts. The OCRE fund is a registered non profit organization and is a combination of private donations and donations made by Belles with Balls NL as a result of our various fundraisers. Belles with Balls NL raises the money, and OCRE utilizes it- creating Ovarian Cancer research and education opportunities in NL. 

Why is it important to increase Ovarian Cancer research and education?

Most women with ovarian cancer are diagnosed at a late stage and will not be cured. The average 5-year survival is 40%. Despite several large international trials that tested different techniques for ovarian cancer screening, no method has ever been able to detect cancers early. Despite popular belief, Ovarian cancer cannot be detected by screening with ultrasound or Ca 125 blood test. Research now indicates that there is a possible genetic cause to many Ovarian Cancer cases. By funding Ovarian Cancer research at Memorial University, Dr. Lesa Dawson MD FRCSC and Dr. Darren O’Rielly PhD CCMG and associates are able to further uncover the genetic component of Ovarian Cancer cases in Newfoundland and Labrador women. This genetic research could be key to early detection, and improved survival rate. Education is an important factor in early detection as well- many women are unaware of the hidden signs to be cautious of when looking for warning signs of Ovarian Cancer.

How can I help?

If you want to make a donation, you can give directly to the OCRE fund, for instructions on how to do so, please click here. You can also support Belles with Balls NL in upcoming fundraisers. To keep up with our latest fundraising events, please visit our Facebook page.

How can I learn more about Ovarian Cancer? Am I at risk?

To learn more about Ovarian Cancer, we invite you to our annual Ovarian Cancer exposium where we expose this disease for what it is! Here, you will get a chance to hear from physicians and health professionals about signs, symptoms, risk factors, and how to live a healthier life. Join us on our Facebook page  where we will be posting educational content throughout September for Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.