On September 10 we welcomed 175 guests to a luncheon at Belle Haven Club. Amanda shared her personal journey with ovarian cancer, underscoring the importance of early detection. She was joined by Dr. Elena Ratner, co-chief of Yale Gynecologic Oncology at Smilow Hospital in New Haven, who spoke about the urgent need for research and support, especially in light of recent funding cuts. Together, they inspired an afternoon of generosity, raising more than $100,000 to benefit Yale School of Medicine’s Discovery To Cure program, which advances research, early detection, and patient care.
We’re deeply grateful to everyone who joined us and gave so generously on September 10.
Early detection can be lifesaving, yet awareness and funding remain critically under supported. Your support helps change that.
From uncovering immune evasion mechanisms to advancing early detection in high-risk women, these targeted grants focused on ovarian and endometrial cancer reflect our commitment to accelerating scientific discovery while ensuring that every person affected by gynecological cancer receives more effective and inclusive care.
Our second annual Fall Luncheon is coming up on September 23rd at the Belle Haven Club. We're delighted to welcome back Dr. Ratner, joined by leading hormone specialist Dr. Alicia Robbins, for an engaging and informative conversation centered around women's health.
Through a $100,000 investment, Every Five Minutes funded four innovative research initiatives focused on improving prevention, detection, treatment, and quality of life for people affected by gynecologic cancers.
Elena Ratner, MD, MBA & Z. Ping Lin, PhD
Ovarian cancer is highly skilled at evading the body's natural immune defenses, making treatment more difficult and increasing the risk of recurrence. This research investigates the biological pathways that allow ovarian cancer cells to suppress immune responses and continue growing. By identifying new therapeutic targets, the study may help improve future immunotherapies and create more effective treatment options for ovarian cancer patients.
Yang Yang-Hartwich, PhD
Many ovarian cancer patients ask whether exercise can improve treatment outcomes and reduce recurrence risk. This research examines how physical activity affects tumor growth, immune function, treatment response, and chemotherapy side effects. The goal is to develop evidence-based exercise strategies that can become part of comprehensive ovarian cancer care, helping patients live longer and maintain a better quality of life during and after treatment.
Clare Flannery, MD
Rates of endometrial cancer are rising rapidly among younger women, particularly those with obesity, diabetes, irregular menstrual cycles, and other risk factors. This project seeks to identify endometrial cancer and precancerous conditions earlier, when treatment is most effective and fertility-preserving options may still be available. The research will also help uncover which metabolic and hormonal factors place women at the greatest risk, creating opportunities for earlier intervention and prevention.
Iman Berrahou, MD
LGBTQ+ individuals remain significantly underrepresented in gynecologic cancer research, leaving important questions about cancer risk, diagnosis, treatment experiences, and outcomes unanswered. This study will collect critical data on LGBTQ+ patients with gynecologic cancers and explore barriers to care, healthcare experiences, and potential disparities in outcomes. The findings will help create more inclusive, equitable, and patient-centered cancer care for all individuals affected by gynecologic cancers.
Join us in making a difference in our community. Volunteer your time, donate to our cause, or attend one of our events. Together, we can create a better future.
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