This Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, we are sharing the story of Irene Koulogeorgiou, a 51-year-old Bulleen mother whose intuition became her greatest lifesaver. Her journey is a stark reminder that when it comes to women’s health, “minor” symptoms deserve major attention.
A Subtle Signal
In late 2024, Irene noticed a small, unusual growth in her belly button. Like many busy mothers of teenagers, her first instinct was to dismiss it as a localised issue, perhaps a minor infection. However, a persistent “gut feeling” led her to seek further investigation.
The results were life-altering: the growth was a manifestation of Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer.
“Ovarian cancer is notoriously hard to detect because there is no routine screening test, like a Pap smear or mammogram,” says Dr. Prachi Bhave, a medical oncologist at Mercy Health and lead of gynaecological clinical trials. “Because the symptoms are often subtle or mimic common digestive issues, women and girls frequently overlook them rather than getting checked out.”
The Gruelling Road to Recovery
Within weeks of her diagnosis, Irene’s life shifted from the family home to the oncology ward. She embarked on a demanding treatment plan that included intensive chemotherapy, major surgery, and daily self-administered blood thinners.
The physical toll was immense. Irene had to undergo intensive rehabilitation just to regain the basic strength required to climb the stairs in her own home. Yet, throughout the ordeal, she maintained a remarkably positive mindset.
Understanding the “Silent” Symptoms
Irene’s case highlights a critical health gap. In 2025, nearly 2,000 Australian women were diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and statistics from Cancer Australia show that less than half will survive five years.
“We need to change the narrative from ‘waiting for a test’ to ‘listening to the body,'” Dr. Bhave explains. “Practical steps women can take include tracking persistent bloating, changes in urinary habits, or pelvic pain. If these symptoms are new and frequent—occurring more than 12 times a month—it’s time to speak up.”
Common early warning signs include:
- Persistent abdominal bloating or increased belly size.
- Feeling full quickly or difficulty eating.
- Pelvic or abdominal pain.
- Urinary urgency or frequency.
A New Era of Detection
While Irene’s story is one of resilience, Dr. Bhave is working to ensure future diagnoses happen much earlier. As a leader in clinical trials, she sees a horizon of hope.
“There are exciting trials happening right now focused on improving both detection and targeted treatments,” says Dr. Bhave. “By participating in research and sharing stories like Irene’s, we are moving closer to a future where stage 4 diagnoses become the exception, not the rule.”
For Irene, the message to other women is simple: Know your body, trust your instincts, and never apologise for seeking a second opinion.
