About Us
STAAR was co-founded by three women diagnosed with low-grade ovarian cancer (Alex, Bailey, and Jess) who are passionate about extending women's lives via research for new treatment opportunities. STAAR is the only US-based non-profit dedicated to low-grade and works with Cure Our Ovarian Cancer (global charity dedicated to low-grade research) to advance research opportunities in the US.
STAAR's founders and board members dedicate their time on a volunteer basis. Nearly every dollar donated will go directly to fund life-saving research.
STAAR's founders and board members dedicate their time on a volunteer basis. Nearly every dollar donated will go directly to fund life-saving research.
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Alex Feldt - Alex has fought hard for the correct diagnosis of stage 4 low-grade ovarian cancer, pushing for tests, asking tough questions, and acting as an amateur medical researcher. Since commencing treatment in 2016, she has applied that same zeal to access treatment options and to stay healthy in an unhealthy body. Alex is excited to combine this experience with her professional background in nonprofits to support STAAR and all women with ovarian cancer. Originally from Ann Arbor, MI, Alex currently lives in central Illinois with the two most handsome, wonderful dudes: her husband Devin and beagle Fred*.
*Not pictured, i.e., not a fan of family portraits (surprisingly un-photogenic for such a cute pup). |
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Bailey Wolfe - Before cancer, Bailey's life was a suburban mom's dream - she was a very active, healthy "boy mom" and first grade teacher. In early 2019, she developed severe bloating and intermittent lower abdominal pain that led to a diagnosis of stage 3A low-grade ovarian cancer. After surgery, chemo, and several bumps along the way, Bailey currently lives with no evidence of disease - praise the Lord! She's accepted that her life is forever changed and lives with the debilitating fear that the cancer will come back. As she navigates her new normal, Bailey chooses to make the most of the time she has, living life to the fullest and raising awareness, advocating, and stay alive until the research and medicine catch up to change the odds. She's excited to ensure that happens through STAAR. Bailey lives in Paducah, Kentucky with her family.
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Jessica BeCraft - Jess was diagnosed with stage 3C low-grade ovarian cancer during an unplanned c-section in January 2018. Since then, she’s been in constant treatment and is yet to become cancer-free. No longer a career-focused, corporate ladder climber, Jess wanted to channel her limited energy into something truly meaningful - STAAR. She strongly believes that research for new treatment options is the key to a longer life for her and other women like her. Jess and her family live in a western suburb of Chicago. Learn more about Jess’s story here: https://bit.ly/3avKggz
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Special thanks to our board members, Nick Gilbertson and Solange Velazquez, for helping make STAAR a reality!
If you're interested in taking an active role on STAAR's board of directors, please email staaroc@gmail.com
If you're interested in taking an active role on STAAR's board of directors, please email staaroc@gmail.com
