For Moss Lannon, his mum, Kim, was more than a parent. She was his “light in dark times and his best friend”. Moss admired her positive outlook, her ability to see everyone’s potential and her kindness. Her unconditional love was a constant in his life.
When Kim was diagnosed with ovarian cancer at just 52, Moss’ world was turned upside down. Until that moment, ovarian cancer was something his family had never heard of. Overnight, it became a defining part of their lives.
Kim’s diagnosis came in late 2021. In early 2022, she began aggressive treatment, starting with chemotherapy, followed by a debulking surgery, and then more chemotherapy. However, due to its aggressive nature, the cancer returned, and Kim passed away in September 2023, aged just 55.
In her final months, Kim focused on cherishing her time with family, and caring for those around her, even as her illness progressed. Moss remembers her incredible resilience – he only saw her cry once during her illness, the day she decided she couldn’t endure another round of chemotherapy.
For Moss, the hardest part was knowing there weren’t better options. By the time Kim was diagnosed with high-grade serous ovarian cancer, it had already spread. Kim tried multiple treatments but eventually ran out of options. “It felt like every decision was a test. Nothing was certain,” Moss reflects on Kim’s treatments.
From mid-2023, Kim required full-time care. Moss moved back from Australia to be by her side, caring for her alongside the amazing Hospice nurses. “It was my life’s honour,” he says. He spent his 24th birthday with Kim at her final chemo treatment – a bittersweet memory, as Kim passed away just weeks later.
Kim, a passionate gardener, teacher, and much-loved member of her community, faced her diagnosis with grace and strength. Despite her diagnosis, Kim remained positive, never letting her illness overshadow the joy she found in life.
Moss is now determined to raise awareness about ovarian cancer, believing it’s the key to changing outcomes for families like his. He finds inspiration in Camilla and Marc’s “Ovaries Talk About Them” campaign in Australia, and speaks out himself. “It gives me hope that others won’t have to experience the pain my family and many others have felt”.
Reflecting on how his family didn’t even know ovarian cancer existed until it upended their lives, Moss wonders how many more women will have to die before things change. Today, he’s committed to, educating others – particularly the women in his life – about ovarian cancer symptoms and the importance of advocating for their health.
We are grateful to Moss for sharing his experience with ovarian cancer and for helping us raise awareness. If you would like to share your story too, please get in touch.
