At Salt Lab, we believe in shining a light on extraordinary humans. Today, we have the privilege of sharing an incredibly inspiring story — a remarkable woman who is facing ovarian cancer with grace and determination. In this Q+A Leane generously shares her journey, insights, and the power of self-care during challenging times.
Thank you for sharing your story and experience with Ovarian Cancer. When were you diagnosed?
I was diagnosed in April 2017. Ovarian cancer is known as the “silent killer” because the symptoms are so vague it is often found in the later stages. I was diagnosed with Stage 3C Advanced Serous ovarian cancer.
How has your life changed?
Once you’ve been told you have cancer everything changes. Although I was diagnosed 6 years ago I have been in constant chemotherapy because the cancer keeps returning. I am incurable and will be in treatment until I die. Ovarian cancer has a 90% recurrence rate.
You are incredibly brave in sharing your journey online. How has this helped you?
Sharing my story has helped me accept my fate and empowered me to leave a legacy when I’m gone. I’m hoping in my lifetime I will see an early-detection test for ovarian cancer that will save women’s lives.
How can we support the Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation?
Put simply, we need more funds to support research. If everyone was to donate simply $5 this would be enough to make a difference. Having said that, we need ongoing funding because most of the research takes 10 years or more to achieve results.
How have your magnesium levels been affected?
Chemotherapy leeches the magnesium from your body, and as a result, I have been receiving weekly magnesium infusions. These have not helped me get my levels anywhere near “normal”.
What symptoms do you experience with lower magnesium?
I suffer from constant muscle aches and poor sleep and I often limp because of the pain in my legs.
Having tried Salt’s Lab’s topical Magnesium products, what benefits did you experience?
I noticed an immediate improvement in my sleep and the restless legs I would struggle with at night decreased.
When and how do you use Salt Lab’s Magnesium Oil?
I use the oil of an evening mainly on my legs - where I feel most of the pain.
You have a great support network around you and have been involved in some great initiatives. What’s next for you and your family?
My husband and 3 daughters prioritise our time together above all else. We make sure that we make as many memories as possible and we are united in our efforts to change the outcomes for women diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
What advice do you have for other women living with Ovarian Cancer?
Try to not let the cancer steal your happiness. Find the joy in every day.
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We are so grateful for the opportunity to hear from Leane, her journey serves as a powerful reminder of the human spirit's capacity to overcome adversity.
We love supporting individuals on their wellness journey, regardless of the challenges they face. If you found this interview meaningful, we encourage you to explore our blog for more empowering stories, wellness tips, and insights into holistic self-care.
Looking for further inspiration? Check out our blog post on ‘How Magnesium Can Boost Your Mood’ to discover how Magnesium can play a role in your happiness. Or dive into ‘How Does Magnesium Help Workouts?’ to explore the benefits of magnesium on your muscles.
Remember, you are never alone on your wellness path. Together, we can embrace life's challenges, find solace in self-care, and embrace the beauty of our shared journey.
If you have any questions or would like to share your own experiences, we'd love to hear from you. Feel free to leave a comment below or reach out to us on social media. Stay connected and keep spreading love, positivity, and wellness in the world!
Until next time,
The Salt Lab Team.
Please note that the information provided in this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. It is always recommended to consult with your qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health routine.