BME Undergrad Raising Ovarian Cancer Awareness

While he has a passion for biomedical engineering, undergraduate student Ryan Walton has an even bigger reason to combat ovarian cancer: His mother is a survivor. The reality of this disease has always been with him, but Walton's goals were galvanized when he completed a high school internship with BME professor and BIO5 Institute Director Jennifer Barton. Walton recently did a Q&A with the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition about his unique perspective and connection to the cause.

NOCC:  How did your unique brand of advocacy come about?

RMW: I would have to say my unique brand of advocacy came about even before I could breathe. My mom was 30 years old and experienced infertility for years.  During an infertility procedure, a mass was found and required removal.  My mom waited a month, but surgery was required and during her pre-operative procedures, found out she was naturally pregnant ... with me. My journey continued after my mom’s healing in a stroller. From run walks to any small event where my mom could share her own journey, I started learning about advocacy. After the stroller, I was able to volunteer myself and enjoyed helping behind the scenes at these events. The connections I made and stories I heard are what shape me today. Once I realized I could make a bigger impact by using my own voice, I did just that as the opening speaker at the national ovarian cancer coalition national conference in New York City at the age of 14. Talk about a big debut. From then on, I have been coast to coast sharing our story and bringing awareness to anyone I meet.

NOCC: What advice would you give to someone who is interested in spreading awareness in their community but may not know where to start?

RMW: I would tell them – raise your voice because we NEED YOU! It only takes one voice to break the silence, and the ripple effect can save more lives. It doesn’t take a stage or a microphone. It simply takes making one new friend a day and/or educating one more person than yesterday. Awareness comes in many shapes, sizes and forms. We need everyone’s voice. It’s our only tool right now – and future OVARIES are depending on us.