THE sister of a much-loved young woman who died of ovarian cancer is helping to raise awareness of the disease.

Laura Bottomley's older sister Emma passed away in August 2019 at the age of 26.

Following her death Emma's family, who live in Malton, have continued to raise awareness of ovarian cancer and the symptoms in a bid to help others.

Laura said her sister continued to be an inspiration in her life.

"When Emma was 20, she was treated for a cancerous ovarian cyst and was given the all clear after surgery. While in remission, she participated in numerous sporting events, including the Great North Run (GNR).

"However, blood tests confirmed at the end of February 2019 that the cancer Emma had back in 2014, had returned. Our whole world turned upside down. Em never let her diagnosis define her and every single day she had a smile on her face.

"Only six months later, Emma peacefully fell asleep surrounded by our family. I made a promise to her that I would challenge myself and live life to the fullest - just like her. On the days that I struggle the most I need to remember that everything is for us both.

"Emma was only in her 20s and is the reason I try to raise awareness for this charity and type of cancer, alongside running as this was something she completely adored."

Earlier this month, Laura ran the GNR for the fourth time for Target Ovarian Cancer.

"I wanted to help raise much needed money and awareness of ovarian cancer, all for my amazing sister Emma. To be able to exercise is a true blessing and something that I will never take for granted."

In the UK, Ovarian Cancer is the sixth most common cancer in females with around 7,500 new cases every year (2017-2019). "Ovarian cancer is extremely rare in young people and only 4.4% of cases are in women aged 20-34, however, it does not discriminate and women of any age can be affected despite living the healthiest lifestyle.

Laura said September was Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month and it was important people were aware of the symptoms of ovarian cancer.

Symptoms are difficult to detect, especially in the early stages. Women may experience abdominal bloating or swelling, lower back pain, nausea and quickly feeling full when eating.

While ovarian cancer commonly occurs in post menopausal women, anyone can be at risk. A common misconception is that a smear test is a screening tool for all gynaecological cancers. However, at present, the only way to diagnose this type of cancer is after a blood test which is only offered if symptoms persist.

At present, there is no screening tool for ovarian cancer and it is often misdiagnosed due to symptoms being similar to less serious conditions.

The main symptoms of ovarian cancer include;

⁃ Persistent bloating

⁃ Feeling full quickly and/or loss of appetite

⁃ Pelvic or abdominal pain

⁃ Urinary symptoms (needing to wee more urgently or more often than usual)

Laura said: "Women must feel empowered to go to the GP if they feel like something is wrong and the awareness of these symptoms can help save lives.

"Nothing makes me prouder and luckier than to say I have Emma as my big sis. My sister is my biggest inspiration every single day. I have never ever met anybody as incredible, courageous and brave.

"Thank you to everyone who has supported my running journey so far over the last few years and encouraged me not to give up. You have helped me more than you’ll ever know.

"Any donations and support will mean the absolute world for this incredible charity and in Emma's name. Nobody should go through what she experienced."

Anyone who would like to make a donation should to to https://www.justgiving.com/page/lauraemmabottomley4

For more information about ovarian cancer visit https://targetovariancancer.org.uk.