Resilience, hope and healing in the face of ovarian cancer

While moving from Littleton to the peaceful mountain town of Bailey, Audrey Krebs began experiencing a persistent ache in her lower right abdomen. At first, she attributed the discomfort to the strain of moving, but when it lingered, she visited her primary care provider. Holding her stomach just to sit comfortably, Audrey nearly canceled the ultrasound and CT scan her doctor ordered—convinced it was nothing. That decision, however, changed her life.

Doctors discovered a tumor. Audrey, whose mother had passed away from ovarian cancer at age 73, didn’t carry the BRCA gene and had never considered herself at risk. She underwent a hysterectomy, expecting the tumor to be benign. Instead, she was diagnosed with Stage 1C ovarian cancer and began six months of chemotherapy.

Two months after completing treatment, Audrey learned the chemo hadn’t worked—the cancer had spread to her lymph nodes and pelvis. “If they had diagnosed it at that stage, I’d be a Stage 3C,” she said. But hope arrived in the form of a new drug, which she’s been on for more than a year and a half. As of March 2025, there’s no evidence of disease.

Although the medication caused side effects, including vision changes, Audrey persevered. She enjoys running, lifting weights, snowshoeing, hiking, and meditating. Her strength was fortified by Nicki’s Circle, a support group through the Colorado Gynecological Cancer Alliance. “The scariest part wasn’t the hysterectomy—it was the port placement,” Audrey shared. “And losing my hair was the hardest. But it’s growing back, and I’ve got a couple of wigs.”

Audrey’s perspective on health has transformed: “I don’t take life for granted anymore. Every day is a gift. Emotional health is just as important as physical health.” She’s taken up piano lessons to combat cognitive decline and worked with an oncology physical therapist to continue running—a passion she’s held for over 20 years.

Her work with the elderly also keeps her grounded. As a care manager and placement advisor, Audrey helps people transition into new living communities. “It helps me get outside of myself,” she said.

Audrey’s biggest sources of support have been her friends—many of whom are also survivors—and her care team. She speaks highly of her gynecologic oncologist, Dr. Kate Dugan, and her nurse, Jenny, at AdventHealth Medical Group Gynecologic Oncology at Porter. She also enjoys connecting with the team at the infusion center at AdventHealth Porter, describing each member as exceptionally kind.

The hardest moments came during chemo, when Audrey would be sick for five days, often alone. “But I knew by day six or seven, I’d feel better. Going through hard times makes you appreciate the good ones.”

Audrey hopes more people understand the importance of not ignoring symptoms. “If something’s nagging you, please don’t ignore it.”

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As September marks Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, Audrey’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of staying proactive about health. Ovarian cancer is considered one of the deadliest gynecological tumors, often diagnosed in advanced stages due to its subtle and easily missed symptoms, according to the American Cancer Society. Regular screenings and paying attention to persistent symptoms can make a life-saving difference. Audrey’s journey encourages everyone to continue fighting against this disease, to support research and awareness, and to never ignore the signs—because early detection saves lives.