Oklahoma City woman with ovarian cancer history to climb Mount Everest
Jess Waddell of Edmond, Oklahoma, is set to become the first woman from the state and the first ovarian cancer survivor to climb Mount Everest.
Waddell, 33, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at the age of 27, underwent surgery and 18 weeks of chemotherapy.
Her interest in mountain climbing began after her mother started climbing mountains and they found it to be a healing experience following her treatment.
Waddell has attempted to climb Everest before but was forced to return when team members contracted Covid-19.
This time, Waddell is leading a team of 20 ovarian cancer survivors, caregivers and advocates to Everest Base Camp.
Waddell and another survivor will continue to the summit in the name of a world without ovarian cancer.
The team aims to raise $2.9 million to support ovarian cancer research and prevention.
Waddell will also be hosting a fundraiser to support the cause.
