The Madison County Extension Homemakers have decided to bring back and host an event to support Ovarian Cancer Research.  The group previously hosted a program annually as a fundraiser, but since Covid has not.  They established a committee among themselves to bring back the event again this year in the form of a Garden Party.  The committee took care of planning the event and delegating tasks associated with the Garden Party, such as the menu, decorations, speakers, etc.  The committee consisted of 6 homemakers and the FCS Agent.  Together everyone took on various tasks of the details to bring the event to light.  The event took place June 3, 2025 at 11AM.

Madison County Extension Homemakers, and KEHA as a whole, pride themselves in taking a stand to educate about Ovarian Cancer.  Ovarian Cancer, while relatively uncommon compared to other cancers, is the deadliest gynecologic cancer and is the leading cancer death among women. It is often diagnosed in advance stages due to vague symptoms. The causes of ovarian cancer are unknown, but certain factors such as age, family history, and genetics can increase a woman's risk.

The committee reached out to Valerie H. Moore MHA., BSN., RN to come speak at the event.  She is the Director of Clinical outreach at the University of Kentucky; department of OBGYN; division of Gynecologic Oncology: Ovarian Cancer Research Program.  She shared more information about Ovarian Cancer and how to protect yourself with annual screenings with the group. 

Also, Amanda Sears, Madison County Horticulture Agent, presented about "Moon Gardens" to accent the Garden Party focus of the event. 

Victoria Faoro, a committee member and also a Champion Food Volunteer, provided the recipes that were presented at the Garden Party; which all focused on fresh fruits and vegetables by incorporating various salads.

A team of Madison County 4-Her's assisted in serving the participants. 

The event hosted 60 participants.  All were women and ranged in ages from approximately 30-70 years of age.  The event raised $1115.33 for Ovarian Cancer Research, from the costs of the tickets and the additional donations taken at the door and after food expenses. 

As a result of the Garden Party: a Fundraiser for Ovarian Cancer Research, 60 women gained more knowledge about Ovarian Cancer and received information about how to access tools through screenings at the University of Kentucky that can aid in early detection and treatment, which can be a matter of life or death. The program raised over $1100 for research.