Ovarian Cancer Canada is bringing back its signature fundraising gala, The Lady Ball, to Calgary for the first time since 2019. The highly anticipated event will take place on November 6 at the Gasoline Alley Museum in Heritage Park, bringing together supporters, survivors, and advocates for an evening of fashion, entertainment, and philanthropy.
The gala’s goal is to raise funds for ovarian cancer research, education, and advocacy efforts across Canada. With ovarian cancer remaining the most fatal gynecologic cancer, organizers hope the event will shine a spotlight on the urgent need for better detection tools and more effective treatments.
“Ovarian cancer poses many unique challenges for women,” said Tania Vrionis, CEO of Ovarian Cancer Canada. “With no reliable screening test and symptoms that are often vague, most women are diagnosed at a late stage. The funds raised through The Lady Ball Calgary will directly support research that aims to detect ovarian cancer earlier and improve patient outcomes.”
Late Diagnosis and Limited Detection
Ovarian cancer often develops silently. Early symptoms — such as bloating, abdominal pain, changes in appetite, and urinary urgency — can be mistaken for other, less serious conditions. This makes early detection particularly difficult.
According to Ovarian Cancer Canada, one person in Canada dies every five hours from the disease. Anyone with ovaries is at risk, though family history, age, and genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2 can increase the likelihood of developing it.
Without a standardized screening test, researchers are focused on improving early detection through genetic testing, symptom tracking, and biomarker studies. Fundraisers like The Lady Ball are critical in advancing this work.
New Educational Tools to Empower Women
In addition to funding research, Ovarian Cancer Canada provides vital support and education for individuals diagnosed with or at risk for ovarian cancer. A recent initiative includes an interactive online questionnaire that helps women assess their personal risk factors.
The tool guides users through questions about family history, genetic background, and potential symptoms, then provides tailored recommendations for preventive action and further medical consultation. The resource aims to encourage women to take proactive steps and engage in informed conversations with their healthcare providers.
A Celebration of Strength and Hope
The Lady Ball Calgary will blend glamour with purpose. Hosted by comedian and television personality Jessi Cruickshank, the event promises an evening filled with food, fashion, and live entertainment, all while celebrating the resilience of those affected by ovarian cancer.
Attendees will hear inspiring stories from survivors, learn about breakthroughs in research, and contribute to a cause that affects thousands of Canadian families each year.
Event Details
- Date: November 6, 2025
- Time: 6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
- Location: Gasoline Alley Museum, Heritage Park, 1900 Heritage Dr. S.W., Calgary
- Tickets: Available through the Ovarian Cancer Canada website
Ovarian Cancer Canada remains the only registered national charity dedicated solely to supporting people affected by ovarian cancer and driving efforts to overcome the disease.
“Every dollar raised helps us get closer to earlier detection, better treatments, and ultimately, a future without ovarian cancer,” Vrionis said.
As The Lady Ball returns to Calgary, organizers hope the event will not only raise funds but also spark greater awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms, helping women recognize the warning signs early and advocate for their own health.
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