BUFFALO, N.Y. — Sometimes, it's the big things in life that make the little things oh, so special.


What You Need To Know

  • According to doctors, about 70% of ovarian cancer patients get cancer again in 18 months of remission

  • Joanne Randles is pushing for more research to be done to prevent the disease, rather than just hope for a cure

  • Randles was the inspiration behind a Buffalo man's reason to participate in the 11 Day Power Play

It's a lesson one can learn from Joanne Randles — who beat stage IV ovarian cancer at the age of 75.

"February was my birthday, so I didn't even know if I'd make it to 75," she added.

Just last week, Randles rang in the good news.  

"Whenever they say you're 'cancer free' at Roswell, they ring the bell," she explained.

Randles' diagnosis was a complete surprise.

"I could feel pain across here,” she said. “I could feel lumps.”

The summer of 2020 was filled with chemotherapy treatments, surgery and more chemo. However, she says it’s the women from the 'Ovarian Cancer Project' that saved her life…

"I thought I was going to die right away, and my one friend from the Ovarian Cancer Project told me, ‘you can beat this.’ She had it 14 years ago." I have over 100 cards from people and the prayers, good wishes — it's helped so, so much," she said with tears in her eyes.

...and people who participated in Buffalos' 11 Day Power Play, like Bill Shaflucas.

"It's a hockey-charity-themed organization where we play hockey and raise money," Shaflucas explained.

They've raised $212,000 over the past couple years, and the money goes toward cancer research and patients’ care.

"Four years ago I was able to finish the game, but I was injured and I couldn't play hockey for three months,” he remembered.  “I said I would never do the 11 Day Power Play again. Then, 2020 came and two of my good friends got diagnosed with cancer. One of them was Joanne Randles."

Despite his injury, Shaflucas plans to hit the ice for 11 days yet again.

"I talked to them and decided to redo this and do it again, and dedicate this 11 Day, this world-record game, to both of them," he said.

Right now, ovarian cancer can return in 70% of patients within 18 months — which is why Randles is hoping for not just the cure.

"Before the cure we need to get a better diagnosis and prevention of it," she stated.

With love and support from others, along with her own motivation, she's determined to keep on fighting.    

"Knock on wood I'm not going back,” Randles said. “One and done is my motto. I want to be part of the 30%."

To donate to cancer research with the 11 Day Power Play, click here.