Dressing up: Murchison local Luisa Niglia is campaigning for a cause — ovarian cancer awareness.
Murchison local Luisa Niglia, 54, has joined forces with three ovarian cancer survivors in a fashion campaign that warns women not to dismiss early symptoms of the deadly disease.
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Throughout February and coinciding with Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, the new campaign can be seen across fashion retailer Black Pepper’s 80 stores.
The partnership hopes to raise awareness and much-needed funds for Ovarian Cancer Australia and will assist nurses who work closely with patients throughout diagnosis, treatment and beyond.
In May 2021, after showing symptoms of fatigue, bloating and hair loss, Luisa requested an x-ray and ultrasound through her GP. Both results returned as non-urgent.
After pushing for additional testing and undergoing a CT scan, a tumour was found on her left ovary.
In July of the same year, she was diagnosed with stage 3C ovarian cancer.
Sadly, at present, Luisa’s cancer has recurred, and she is undergoing further treatment.
However, her message to women to listen to their bodies and continue pushing for answers is brave and inspiring.
“Although I can’t change the fact that I have recurrent cancer, I want to make people aware of the signs and symptoms,” she said.
“Do not dismiss issues like bloating, lethargy or irritable bowel issues and seek advice from your GP and insist on further investigations.
“Don’t ignore the signs.
“Don’t take no for an answer.”
Recurrent cancer is a form of cancer that has returned or recurred when a fraction of primary tumour cells evade the effects of treatment.
Luisa’s determination to overcome the disease and continue to fight in her own way is commendable.
“I’m here to fight it in my own way, deal with it in my own way, and stay strong and fit in my own way,” Luisa said.
“I ask for no sympathy or sadness.
“I intend to stay positive and live as normal as possible.”
The Black Pepper campaign showcases the four women modelling Black Pepper clothing, including two specially designed scarves, a blouse and a top.
All items are for sale during February, with a portion of the sales going towards Ovarian Cancer Australia.
Now in its ninth year, the partnership aims to raise $100,000.
“To be selected by my ovarian cancer nurse to feature in the campaign was a great privilege,” Luisa said.
“To be pampered and dressed for a photo shoot at Werribee Mansion was incredible, and I felt lucky.
“I never thought my cancer would return, but it did.
“Listen to your body and keep pushing.
“Be absolute and stay fit for life.”
To shop for campaign items, head into Black Pepper stores or online at www.blackpepper.com.au
Awareness through fashion: Renata Potoczky, Karen Gower, Luisa Niglia and Narelle Lawrence are bringing awareness to ovarian cancer through a Black Pepper fashion campaign.
Photo by
Sam Bisso
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