Why OCRF Ambassador Amelia Higgs Frocks Up
Since 2022 Amelia Higgs has frocked up for a cause that truly matters: ovarian cancer research, and in 2024 she became one of the faces of the refreshed campaign. For Amelia, the Frocktober campaign doesn’t just allow her to showcase her style; she’s turning her personal journey with ovarian cancer into a fashion filled month of fundraising.
Since its inception in 2007, Frocktober has become Australia’s most fashionable month-long fundraiser, inviting everyone to dive into their wardrobes and make a meaningful impact in the fight against ovarian cancer.
For Amelia, Frocktober represents more than just a chance to wear fabulous frocks—it’s a powerful platform to raise awareness, educate those around her and spark conversations about a disease that often goes undetected until it’s too late.
Amelia’s story of ovarian cancer diagnosis
Amelia’s story with ovarian cancer began in 2022. At just 34 years old, while trying to start a family, Amelia noticed changes in her body that didn’t feel “right”. “At first, the symptoms seemed consistent with normal hormonal changes as part of my cycle, but as time went on, they grew increasingly severe,” she says.
“When I began to be able to feel firm lumps in my abdomen, I knew something was wrong.”
10 days after a swift visit to her GP, Amelia faced a shocking diagnosis: tennis-ball-sized cysts on both ovaries. The urgency of her situation demanded immediate surgery, and most likely, the removal of both her ovaries. Although a fertility specialist was present during the surgery to determine if some ovarian tissue could be saved to preserve Amelia’s fertility, unfortunately, it was decided that the tissue was too badly damaged to be viably saved.
A subsequent biopsy of the tissue found Amelia had a rare condition called Borderline Complex Ovarian Cysts. Meaning the cysts were not yet cancerous, but were highly likely to become so if left untreated.
Channeling grief into positive action with Frocktober
"After my surgery, I stumbled across a Facebook ad for Frocktober," Amelia recalls. "It felt like the perfect opportunity to channel my grief into something positive. I saw it as a way to raise awareness while also indulging my love for dressing up!"
Over the past two years, Amelia has embraced the Frocktober challenge, using her wardrobe to bring attention to an often-overlooked issue.
What Amelia loves most about Frocktober is the community it fosters. "Despite its serious focus, Frocktober is filled with fun and laughter," she says. "I’ve connected with so many incredible women across Australia who share similar experiences. It’s empowering to know we’re all in this together."
Amelia has raised an impressive $14,000 through her Frocktober efforts, but her motivations run deeper than fundraising. She believes in the importance of supporting ovarian cancer research to prevent other women from facing the challenges she encountered. "I want to help others avoid what I went through. More funding means more research, and ultimately, better outcomes for women."
Raising funds and conversations for better ovarian cancer outcomes
Looking to the future, Amelia is hopeful for advancements in early detection – an accessible, habitual and accurate early detection test could have spared Amelia and her family this heartache. "I dream of a world where non-invasive tests for ovarian cancer are routine," she says. "Early detection is the key to improving survival rates, and I believe we can get there together."
Amelia’s experience has also fueled her commitment to destigmatizing conversations around women's health. "I had no idea how serious ovarian cancer was until my surgery. It’s crucial to talk about these issues openly and without shame. I want women to know they’re not alone and that their voices matter."
Amelia’s top tips for Frocktober
For those registering for Frocktober, Amelia offers a few cheeky tips: "Get social! Use hashtags, engage with others, and share your story if you feel comfortable. Remember, every dollar counts, and it’s all about having fun while making a difference!"
As she gears up for the 2024 Frocktober campaign, Amelia is excited to bring her fashion flair to the forefront once again. "Frocktober is a joyful way to support a serious cause. Let’s make it a month to remember!"
So, whether you're a seasoned Frocker or a newcomer ready to rock your frock for a day, let Amelia’s journey be a reminder of why we frock up, as you don your favorite head-turning outfits this October.