A courageous cancer survivor is set to lead the charge against cancer in Scotland’s biggest city this summer, following life-saving surgery at Glasgow Royal Infirmary.
Jennifer Ogilvie (middle), 51, has been named Guest of Honour at Cancer Research UK’s Shine Night Walk Glasgow on Saturday 30 August, where she will sound the starting horn for over 1,000 participants taking part in the 10k walk to raise funds for life-saving research.
Jennifer’s journey began in July 2022 when she experienced unexpected bleeding, which was initially thought to be related to perimenopause. However, a blood test revealed her CA125 level was over 9,000 — a marker strongly associated with ovarian cancer. She was quickly referred for further investigations and treatment.
Between August and October 2022, Jennifer underwent four sessions of chemotherapy. In November, she had surgery, but it was unsuccessful due to evidence that the cancer had spread. She then received two additional chemotherapy sessions in December 2022.
In February 2023, Jennifer underwent a complex, 12-hour interdisciplinary surgery for advanced ovarian cancer. The procedure, carried out by a team of three surgeons, involved the removal of multiple organs and the fitting of a stoma. Her treatment continued with further chemotherapy and ongoing targeted therapy.
Jennifer’s surgery was a collaborative effort between the Gynaecological Oncology, Colorectal, and Hepatobiliary teams at Glasgow Royal Infirmary.
Professor Nigel Jamieson, Pancreatic Surgeon at GRI, said: “I had the privilege of operating on Jennifer, who required complex interdisciplinary surgery for ovarian cancer at Glasgow Royal Infirmary. Throughout her recovery, she has shown remarkable courage, resilience, and an unwavering positive attitude. Her steadfast commitment to recovery has been an inspiration to all of us involved in her care.
“Her successful treatment exemplifies the capability of NHSGGC to coordinate and deliver complex multidisciplinary surgical oncology care and follow-up for a group of patients diagnosed with an exceptionally Challenging cancer.”
Dr Rhona Lindsay, Clinical Lead for Gynaecological Cancer at West of Scotland Cancer Network, said: “Cytoreductive surgery is the cornerstone of ovarian cancer management. Jennifer is one of many women across the West of Scotland benefiting from the enhanced service provided by our teams. The collaboration between specialities is key to delivering the best outcomes.”
“I know I’m one of the lucky ones,” said Jennifer. “I’m living my best life thanks to a team of wonderful doctors, surgeons and fantastic advances in cancer research. It’s a privilege to share my story to help provide hope and raise awareness.”
Jennifer now takes Olaparib, a targeted therapy developed with support from Cancer Research UK and continues to receive regular check-ups. Her latest scans show no evidence of disease.
She has raised over £2,000 for Cancer Research UK and will now help inspire others at Shine Night Walk Glasgow.
To sign up or volunteer, visit shinewalk.org. Use code SNWAUG25 between 18 August and 1 September to receive 30% off the entry fee.
