Celebrated Bollywood and Netflix star Manisha Koirala is to become an Ambassador for the UK’s ovarian cancer support charity Ovacome.
Having successfully overcome stage 4 ovarian cancer almost a decade ago, Manisha is now using her platform to support others battling the disease and to spotlight critical issues such as health inequalities in the UK and beyond.
7,500 people in the UK are diagnosed with ovarian cancer every year. Through her voluntary work with Ovacome, Manisha will engage with cancer survivors and patients, offering words of encouragement and hope while shedding light on the importance of early detection and support systems. With many patients still diagnosed in the late stages of the disease, Manisha will also be working to raise awareness of the disease and the symptoms. With her deep personal understanding of the physical and emotional toll of cancer, Manisha aims to inspire others to stay positive and keep fighting.
“I want to use my voice to not only support cancer patients but to raise awareness about the need for equitable healthcare access and the importance of knowing the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer,” said Manisha. “Having faced cancer myself, I know how isolating and challenging the journey can be, and I believe it is essential that we all play a part in changing that reality for others.”
Victoria Clare, Ovacome CEO said “We hear daily from those we support about the isolation they feel following an ovarian cancer diagnosis. Manisha’s decision to share her own experience and challenge the stigma associated with the disease is deeply inspiring and will help so many amongst our community. We are really looking forward to welcoming Manisha as our official Ambassador. Ovacome are firmly committed to reducing health inequalities and we hope together that we can be a force in improving equitable access to diagnosis and treatment.”
Preeti, who has faced a diagnosis of ovarian cancer herself, is a long-time supporter of Ovacome and said “Manisha being a Bollywood icon since 1991 at a very young age, has become well known all over the world and this in itself is an asset to Ovacome.
“Having Manisha on board as an ambassador will not only raise awareness of what Ovacome do but will also create awareness in the diverse communities we are living in, and hopefully help to break some of the stigma people have in their minds. I think this will enable people to speak up and potentially get an earlier diagnosis, with Manisha’s presence being particularly impactful in communities where there is a language barrier as Manisha can help raise awareness around signs and symptoms and help to signpost to Ovacome’s website.”
Manisha is also the author of Healed, a powerful memoir detailing her journey with cancer. Her resilience and contributions to cinema were recognised last year when she was honoured in British Parliament. Adding to these accolades, she has received heartfelt letters from Kate Middleton and King Charles, offering their best wishes for her continued recovery.
Alongside her philanthropic work, Manisha is enjoying the success of her latest role in the hit Netflix series Heeramandi. The series has shattered records, becoming one of India’s biggest OTT hits. Manisha’s performance earned her the Best Actress award, cementing her status as a powerhouse in international cinema.
The versatile actor is also the granddaughter of former Nepalese Prime Minister Bishweshwar Prasad Koirala, a background that further underscores her commitment to public service and advocacy.
Manisha’s Ambassadorship of Ovacome is a testament to her passion for driving change, not just in entertainment but in the realms of healthcare and social equity. Her story of survival and resilience continues to inspire millions, and her dedication to using her platform for good is evident in her ongoing work to create awareness around cancer and tackle global health disparities.
Ovacome are inviting readers to get involved by;
Donating – no matter how big or small this can go along way for people affected by ovarian cancer.
Raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer: our B.E.A.T. signs and symptoms campaign materials are available in various community languages.
If you have been affected by ovarian cancer, Ovacome’s support team is here Monday-Friday 10am-5pm by calling 0800 008 7054 or emailing support@ovacome.org.uk.
For help in other languages visit Ovacome
