Governor Gretchen Whitmer is a lifelong Michigander. She is a lawyer, an educator, former prosecutor, State Representative and Senator. She was the first woman to lead a Senate caucus. But the most important title she boasts is MOM. Inspired by her family, she’s devoted her life to building a stronger Michigan for everyone.
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September 01, 2026
WHEREAS, in the United States, a woman’s lifetime risk of being diagnosed with ovarian cancer is about 1 in 91; and,
WHEREAS, the American Cancer Society estimates 20,890 cases of ovarian cancer will be newly diagnosed in 2025 and 12,730 individuals will die from the disease nationwide, including 660 new cases and 420 deaths in Michigan; and,
WHEREAS, there is not currently an effective diagnostic tool for screening and early detection does not exist; and,
WHEREAS, too many people remain unaware that the symptoms of ovarian cancer often include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, urinary symptoms, and several other vague symptoms that are often easily confused with other diseases; and,
WHEREAS, improved awareness of the symptoms of ovarian cancer by the public and health care providers can lead to a quicker diagnosis; and,
WHEREAS, ongoing investments in ovarian cancer research and education and awareness efforts are critical to closing these gaps and improving survivorship for individuals with ovarian cancer;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim the month of September 2026 as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.