As MOCA celebrates our 20th anniversary this year, we are profiling a MOCA supporter each month. Some will have long-standing ties with our organization, and some will have connected with us more recently. They’ll all share a common thread of caring deeply about MOCA’s mission.
Our April profile is focused on a survivor you may have met at the MOCA office – it’s MOCA’s data entry specialist June Miller! June celebrates 20 years of ovarian cancer survivorship this October. Read on to hear her story and what MOCA means to her.
When were you diagnosed?
I was diagnosed with Stage III ovarian cancer in October 1999. Unbeknownst to me, at the same time, Molly Cade and other MOCA founders were just starting to plant the seeds for the organization that MOCA would become!
I had wonderful treatment through the Mayo Clinic and the support of loving family and friends. I was fortunate to become cancer-free after my treatment and this fall, I will celebrate being a 20-year survivor.
How did you first become connected with MOCA?
After retiring from Land O’ Lakes in 2008 after 29 years with the company, I wanted to participate in some meaningful volunteer work. I sought out MOCA. After learning about their mission and objectives, I knew it was where I should be. After volunteering for many years, I became a staff member as a Data Entry specialist. I also help at MOCA’s events.
What does MOCA mean to you?
I am so proud to be a small part of MOCA and the wonderful work we do and the support we provide to survivors. I enjoy coming to work each day, knowing that even though my part is small it is for an important cause.
What is your hope for the next 20 years of MOCA?
To continue to see our research funding efforts focused on an early detection test and a cure. I would like to see fewer ‘newly diagnosed’ and expanded education and support to survivors.
How do you plan on marking the 20thanniversary of MOCA in 2019?
Celebrating my 20th anniversary along with MOCA’s! I look forward to attending our major events like our Black, White & Teal Gala and HOM Teal Strides for Ovarian Cancer. My connection with MOCA is part of the reason I consider my life to be so good.
