As most of you know, we lost our beloved Founder/Honorary Chairwoman, Rhonda, suddenly on October 29th, 2020. While her cancer was stable, she developed a complication that quickly took her from us.

Rhonda was deeply loved by many. Her circle of family and friends was immense, and we appreciate each person who has taken time to share a memory of her with us.

As we work to move from sorrow to celebration, we are trying to focus on the joy she brought to us each day. No matter how difficult her day, Rhonda always chose joy.

Choosing Joy and Celebration

Rhonda was fun and lively. Sarcastic and smart. But above all, she was empathetic and kind and generous to a fault. A courageous warrior, Rhonda never complained about the pain or asked “why me” as so many of us have done on her behalf.

She was quick to share a warm hug and always had an enormous smile on her beautiful face. Rhonda would sing loudly (and more than a little off key) in her car no matter who was riding in the passenger seat beside her. She would dance at every opportunity, including in the midst of a tough chemo cycle.

Even on her last day, when it was obvious that her fight was ending, Rhonda never gave up. She fought to remain with her family and friends.

Those of us who loved her are struggling to return to our normal lives. We are trying hard to choose joy, just as Rhonda would want us to do.

The network we built and funds we raised so quickly for MOCC was a great source of pride to Rhonda. Each of you played a role in our rapid success, and she was thankful for you. Advocating for and supporting other women with mucinous ovarian cancer was Rhonda’s mission, even as she fought her own difficult battle.

On behalf of the MOCC team and Rhonda’s family, we thank you for your continued support. #HerFightIsOurFight #Hope4MOC

Shelley Laurell
Devoted Sister & President of MOCC
November 14, 2020