Standing Strong Against Ovarian Cancer June 17, 2026 A blend of family, faith, quilting, feeding others and helping women heal is how 58-year-old Amber Gigstad of Albany describes her life today. But it was not always that way. Renewed faith and coordinated care become the foundation of her ovarian cancer treatment journey. For decades, she carried the weight of a strict upbringing and a fading connection to her faith. Five years ago, long before her cancer diagnosis, Gigstad attended a women’s spiritual retreat and felt grounded in her faith again, preparing her for what came next. In late 2024, after months of discomfort and unexplained bloating, she went to the Emergency Department at Samaritan Albany General Hospital. Doctors drained a large amount of fluid from her abdomen, and testing confirmed it was cancerous. Even more surprising was the source: ovarian cancer. The news was difficult for Gigstad to process. Some 20 years earlier, she had undergone a full hysterectomy for endometriosis. Her uterus, cervix and one ovary were removed. At the time, it was believed the second ovary was not present. “Hearing ‘you have cancer’ was shock enough,” said Gigstad. “But to learn it was ovarian cancer was gut ‑wrenching.” Her initial anger quickly turned to determination. At Samaritan Gynecologic Oncology – Corvallis, Gigstad found a unique care model — the specialists who performed surgery also directed her chemotherapy and follow ‑up care. This continuity gave her confidence and comfort during a frightening time. Gynecologic oncologist Andrea Buras, MD, and Amelia Elliott, PA-C, walked her through every step with compassion and candor. Gigstad’s treatment plan was aggressive: chemotherapy, major abdominal surgery, more chemotherapy — plus two years of targeted therapy. “I never hesitated,” Gigstad said. “I wanted to live for my family and faith community. I wasn’t going to let cancer win.” Chemotherapy was manageable, but losing her hair was devastating. “I’ve never felt so ugly or sick,” she said. Despite these moments, she stayed rooted in hope. “You must choose to live through your death battle. Positivity breeds healing,” Gigstad said. Her family and faith community became her circle of strength and a reminder that she was not alone. Today, Gigstand continues targeted therapy and manages lingering side effects such as neuropathy and arthritis, but she remains focused on how far she has come. “I feel a thousand times better than I did a year ago,” she said. “I’m not fully healed yet, but I am here and living with renewed energy.” Her renewed strength has her looking to the future. “I want to expand my women’s ministry, support others facing cancer and advocate for greater awareness of ovarian health,” she said. “Women aren’t told enough about ovarian cancer signs. Pap smears don’t detect it. We need better awareness!” Gigstad’s message to others just beginning their cancer journey is simple and heartfelt. “Take care of yourself, and I mean, really take care of yourself. Find that positive something to hold onto every day! Your mind is your strongest tool,” she said. Samaritan Gynecologic Oncology – Corvallis provides compassionate and expert care from one dedicated team, from surgery and chemotherapy through follow-up care. Learn more at samhealth.org/GynOnc.
