Ovarian Cancer National Conference Agenda

Please note, all times are listed in Eastern Time.

Agenda is subject to change.

Wednesday, November 1, 2023

10:30AM
Explore Sponsors, Resources, & Network
Check out dedicated areas to learn more about OCRA programs, national resources, and generous sponsors. You can also meet up with others in our networking space. And if at any time you want a break, visit the serenity room for a quiet, soothing space.

11:15AM
Conference Kickoff and Welcome Remarks
Welcome to Uniting for Hope! Audra Moran, President & CEO, Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance will share some exciting news as we kick off three special days of learning and connection.
Speaker: Audra Moran, OCRA’s President & CEO

11:35AM
What’s New in Ovarian Cancer Research
Join us for this session which will set the stage for the rest of the conference— a research and treatment update from the current President of the Society of Gynecologic Oncology, Dr. Angeles Alvarez Secord.
Speaker: Alvarez Secord, MD, MHSc

12:30PM
Clinical Trials 101
Clinical trials are a critical way to advance science, and for patients to access the most cutting-edge care. At the same time, patients and family members have a lot of questions about clinical trials—how they work, when to consider trials, and pros and cons. Dr. Shannon Westin will answer all your questions.
Speaker: Shannon Westin, MD, MPH

1:30PM
Thriving with Cancer! Optimizing Ourselves through the Cancer Care Journey (with Q&A)
Physical and emotional suffering does not need to go hand in hand with a diagnosis of gynecologic cancer or its treatment. Lori Spoozak, MD, MHS, FACOG, FACS will share her insights as both a Board-Certified Gynecologist Oncologist and Palliative Medicine Physician. Dr. Spoozak will share strategies around care and provide effective options for maintaining quality of life through treatment.
Speaker: Lori Spoozak, MD, MHS, FACOG, FACS

4:30PM
Sponsored Session (with Q&A)
Talking Clinical Trials with Genelux Corporation
Olvi-Vec-primed immunochemotherapy for treatment of platinum-resistant/refractory ovarian cancer

4:30PM
Sponsored Session (with Q&A)
Talking Clinical Trials with Sutro Biopharma
REFRαME-O1 Trial: Luveltamab tazevibulin “Luvelta” or STRO-002 for women with advanced ovarian cancer

5:00PM
An Update on the Chemotherapy Shortage (with Q&A)
Drug shortages have occurred in this country for many years, but recently we have seen dramatic shortages of the drugs utilized in ovarian cancer treatment. Dr. Nickles Fader will share what is happening, what steps are being taken to improve access to these necessary chemotherapy drugs, and answer your questions live.
Speaker: Amanda Nickles Fader, MD

6:00PM
Community Connection: Come Together to Discuss the Day
OCRA Oncology Social Workers will host this interactive session at the close of each day’s sessions. Please join them to talk about what you have learned, how you are feeling as the speakers share new information, and connect with others.
Leaders: OCRA Patient Support Team

Special General Session
Understanding Risk & Prevention Strategies
Please join Audra Moran, President & CEO of OCRA and Gillian Hanley, MD from University of British Columbia, Canada for an important discussion on understanding one’s risk of developing ovarian cancer, the importance of genetic testing, and some prevention strategies for those with or without higher risk criteria.
Speakers: Audra Moran, OCRA’s President & CEO; Gillian Hanley, MD

Thursday, November 2, 2023

10:00AM
Reflections Recognition & Memorial
Please join us in remembering those who have died, those we have lost touch with, and those who we want to send support. This will be an interactive session honoring our friends and community, facilitated by Tracy Moore, LCSW and Nancy Cincotta, LCSW, MPhil.
Live Breakout

11:00AM
Explore Sponsors, Resources, & Network

Check out dedicated areas to learn more about OCRA programs, national resources, and generous sponsors. You can also meet up with others in our networking space. And if at any time you want a break, visit the serenity room for a quiet, soothing space.

11:30PM
Managing Recurrence (with Q&A)
Fear of recurrence can be prevalent and overwhelming. Join us for a presentation on the management of recurrent ovarian cancer. Presented by Sarah Adams, MD.
Speaker: Sarah Adams, MD

1:00PM
Ask the Experts: Part 1
Our panel of experts answer all of your most pressing questions on ovarian and gynecologic cancer research, treatment, and survivorship.
Speakers: Beth Karlan, MD (moderator); Andrew Berchuck, MD; Kunle Odunsi, MD, PhD, FRCOG, FACOG; Premal Thaker, MD, MSc

2:00PM
Ask the Experts: Part 2
Our panel of experts continue to answer all of your most pressing questions on ovarian and gynecologic cancer research, treatment, and survivorship.
Speakers: Beth Karlan, MD (moderator); Andrew Berchuck, MD; Kunle Odunsi, MD, PhD, FRCOG, FACOG; Premal Thaker, MD, MSc

3:00PM
Managing Fear
The diagnosis of gynecologic cancer brings a host of volatile emotions and can push you into a state of “fight or flight.” It is normal to feel a wide range of emotions, thoughts, and fears. This session, presented by Elyse Adams, LCSW, addresses the complexity of those emotions and offers strategies to recognize and cope with the roller coaster of emotions caused by diagnosis and treatment. You will learn concrete ways to improve your quality of life and manage the ever-present fear many experience.
Speaker: Elyse Adams, LCSW

4:00PM
Sponsored Session (with Q&A)

Talking Clinical Trials with Corcept Therapeutics
A Phase 3 Study of Relacorilant in Combination With Nab-Paclitaxel Versus Nab-Paclitaxel Monotherapy in Advanced, Platinum-Resistant, High-Grade Epithelial Ovarian, Primary Peritoneal, or Fallopian-Tube Cancer (ROSELLA)

4:00PM
Sponsored Session (with Q&A)
Talking Clinical Trials with GRAIL
The State of Multi-Cancer Early Detection (MCED)

4:30PM
Sponsored Session (with Q&A)
Talking Clinical Trials with Anixa Biosciences
Infusion of Autologous T Cells Engineered to Target FSH Receptor in Recurrent Ovarian Cancer- A Phase 1 Clinical Trial

4:30PM
Sponsored Session (with Q&A)
Talking Clinical Trials with PMV Pharma
PYNNACLE Study: PC14586 in patients with solid tumors harboring a TP53 Y220C mutation

5:00PM
Diet and Nutrition during Chemotherapy and Beyond
Navigating the many available diets, nutritional choices, and available supplements can be daunting and overwhelming. Finding trusted resources familiar with the unique needs of those diagnosed with gynecologic cancer can be challenging. Julie Lanford MPH, RD, CSO, LDN addresses your questions and offers great insights into healthy dietary options to help you heal throughout treatment and beyond.
Speaker: Julie Lanford MPH, RD, CSO, LDN

6:00PM
Community Connection: Come Together to Discuss the Day
OCRA Oncology Social Workers will host this interactive session at the close of each day’s sessions. Please join them to talk about what you have learned, how you are feeling as the speakers share new information, and connect with others.
Leaders: OCRA Patient Support Team

Friday, November 3, 2023

10:30AM
Survivors Teaching Students Volunteer Meeting
For current STS program volunteers only: Join Susan Leighton and your fellow STS volunteers for important updates on what’s new in this program.
Leader: Susan Leighton

11:00AM
Sponsored Session (with Q&A)

Talking Clinical Trials with AstraZeneca
Emerging Data for Olaparib Combinations in Ovarian and Endometrial Cancer

11:30AM
Sponsored Session (with Q&A)
Talking Clinical Trials with Adaptimmune
SURPASS-3: Phase 2 T-cell Therapy Clinical Trial for Platinum-resistant Ovarian Cancer

11:30AM
Sponsored Session (with Q&A)
Talking Clinical Trials with Immunogen
Talking Clinical Trials with ImmunoGen

12:00PM
Navigating Insurance Coverage and Appeals
Understanding the various types of insurance coverage; whether private, commercial, or federal; what is covered by each, what you may be eligible for, and why is daunting for all. Between the complexities of cancer care needs and the world of authorizations, denials, and appeals, many struggle to get through the maze of insurance and financial ramifications. This session presented by Joanna Fawzy Doran, Esq., offers education on all things related to insurance coverage and strategies for getting through it successfully.
Speaker: Joanna Fawzy Doran, Esq.

1:30PM
Get Involved! Ways to Get Support and Give Back to Your Ovarian Cancer Community (with Q&A)
Ready to take the next step and get more involved in this growing community? Join us to learn about all the ways OCRA is here to support you- and how you can join in. This is also a great opportunity to meet many of the OCRA team.
Leaders: OCRA Staff

2:30PM
Navigating the Cancer Journey from the Spousal Perspective
Navigating the Cancer Journey from the Spousal Perspective offers a glimpse into two families’ lives as they navigate their loved one’s ovarian cancer diagnosis, treatment, and beyond. This session provides an intimate discussion around the caregiving role and supporting your loved ones while finding strategies for self-care. Brad Gougeon and Ken Hooker courageously talk with OCRA’s Oncology Social Worker Sarah Handsman, LCSW about their experiences as husbands and caregivers.
Speakers: Brad Gougeon; Sarah Handsman, LCSW; Ken Hooker

3:30PM
Chemo Brain: Strategies for Improving Brain Fog
Chemo brain can be a difficult complication of treatment. Nicolette Gabel, PhD will provide information about what that “fog” is and strategies to improve neuro-cognitive functioning.
Speaker: Nicolette Gabel, PhD

4:30PM
A Conversation with Suleika Jaouad

Please join us for an inspiring and hope-filled discussion not to be missed. Suleika Jaouad, author of the New York Times bestselling memoir Between Two Kingdoms, Emmy Award-winning New York Times column “Life, Interrupted”, creator of The Isolation Journals, and cancer survivor will share her insights on living well and finding meaning in the face of cancer and COVID-19.
Speakers: Nancy Cincotta, LCSW, MPhil; Suleika Jaouad

5:25PM
Closing Remarks
Please join Audra Moran, President & CEO as she shares some final thoughts to close the conference. And please remember, although our time together at Uniting for Hope 2023 is ending, OCRA is always here for you and your family.
Audra Moran, OCRA’s President & CEO

5:30PM
Community Connection: Come Together to Discuss the Day
OCRA Oncology Social Workers will host this interactive session at the close of each day’s sessions. Please join them to talk about what you have learned, how you are feeling as the speakers share new information, and connect with others.
Leaders: OCRA Patient Support Team

On-Demand Sessions

  • The Embodiment of Sexual Pleasure after Trauma
    Sexual health, intimacy, and pleasure are all natural expectations for life, yet after a gynecologic cancer diagnosis, many are left with dramatic changes in these important aspects of living. This session, presented by Dr. Andreya Jones, will address the relationship between self and partner while providing key strategies to regain sexual pleasure after diagnosis and treatment.
    Speaker: Andreya “Dreya” Jones, Ph.D., LCSW, CST
  • Experimental Therapies for Ovarian Cancer
    Have you ever been confused by some of the terms used in conversations around ovarian cancer research? Immunotherapy, cell therapy, vaccines, gene therapy, targeted therapy—what does it all mean? This is an exciting time for research, but it can be challenging to understand how all these new concepts fit together. Dr. Kathleen Moore from the University of Oklahoma will help you make sense of it all.
    Speaker: Kathleen Moore, MD, MS
  • Importance of Genetics and Biomarkers
    Genetics and biomarkers play a critical role in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cancer. Learn everything you need to know about this often confusing but critically important topic with Dr. Anna Jo Smith from the University of Pennsylvania.
    Speaker: Anna Jo Smith, MD, MPH, MSc
  • Legislative Efforts to Improve Access to Testing and Diagnostics
    OCRA is THE voice for the gynecologic cancer community, engaging with policymakers to help deliver critical research funding and to ensure access to care. In this session you’ll hear from OCRA’s own Vice President of Policy, Chad Ramsey, on what we’re doing to improve access to testing and diagnostics for the gynecologic cancer community.
    Speaker: OCRA’s Vice President, Policy, Chad Ramsey
  • PARP Inhibitors: What’s Happening
    PARP inhibitors are playing an increasingly important role in treatment for many ovarian cancer patients, but have come under increasing scrutiny from the Food and Drug administration. Join Dr. Gini Fleming from the University of Chicago to get the latest on what’s new with this class of drugs that have been a changer for so many.
    Speaker: Gini Fleming, MD
  • Spirituality Before and After Cancer
    Explore the role of spirituality during and after cancer treatment through a lively discussion between Chaplains Dana Rainey and Karen Terry, both of whom serve as Chaplains for The Mount Sinai Hospital in NYC. Discussions around the varying experiences of faith and the ways it can strengthen, offer guidance, or waver after diagnosis.
    Speakers: Dana Rainey, MAM; Karen Terry, MTS, BCC
  • Talking with your Children about Cancer
    A diagnosis of cancer can be overwhelming and often confusing to explain to loved ones. It can especially be challenging to find the words to clearly explain what is happening to your children, whether they are school aged or adults. Please join us for this session to help you navigate these crucial conversations.
    Speakers: Nancy Cincotta, LCSW, MPhil; Tracy Moore, LCSW
  • What’s New in Cervical Cancer
    Join gynecologic oncologist Dr. Nita Lee for an update on what’s new in research and treatment of cervical cancer.
    Speaker: Nita Lee, MD
  • What’s New in Endometrial Cancer
    Join endometrial cancer expert Dr. Emily Ko from the University of Pennsylvania for this special session dedicated to what’s going on in research and treatment of endometrial and uterine cancers.
    Speaker: Emily Ko, MD MSCR
  • What’s New in Rare Gynecologic Cancers
    Learn what’s new in the treatment of rare gynecologic cancers, as presented by Amanda Nickles-Fader, MD, associate professor for the Johns Hopkins Medicine Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics and the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center.
    Speaker: Amanda Nickles Fader, MD
  • Why Health Equity and Access to Care is Important for All
    The 5-year ovarian cancer survival rate for white women is 46%; in Black patients, it’s 36%. A similar pattern exists within cervical and uterine cancers. It is critical that these health inequities be changed from both a moral and economic standpoint. And in doing so, it will lead to better care for all of us. This session, presented by Dineo Khabele, MD, FACOG, FACS, will address health inequity from a historical, medical, social, moral, and ethical standpoint, while offering critical insights on why change must occur and how we can all get involved.
    Speaker: Dineo Khabele, MD, FACOG, FACS

Thank you to our 2023 Ovarian Cancer National Conference Sponsors:

Presenting Sponsor

Champion Sponsor

Supporter Sponsor

Contributor Sponsor

Teal Sponsor