A Bit About Me – Craig, AKA Mr. Ovary
It’s not every day you see a man in a giant ovary costume – let alone running a marathon in one! So, allow me to introduce myself. I’m Craig, but for the past eight years, I’ve been better known as Mr. Ovary. My journey began in 2016 when I tragically lost my sister, Cheryl, to ovarian cancer.
Cheryl was just 43 years old when she passed away. Her loss was devastating for our family, especially since ovarian cancer is often perceived as a disease affecting older women. In my grief, I knew I had to do something to honor Cheryl’s memory and make a difference. That’s how I found myself donning an ovary costume, traveling across the country to raise awareness and funds for Ovacome, a leading ovarian cancer support charity.
What is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer is often difficult to detect in its early stages. By the time most women are diagnosed, the disease has usually progressed to Stage 3, making treatment much more challenging. Each year, over 7,500 women in the UK are diagnosed, with about 1 in 50 women receiving a diagnosis in their lifetime. Despite these staggering statistics, public awareness remains low, and there is no official screening program, making early detection even more difficult.
How Ovacome is Making a Difference
Ovacome has been at the heart of the ovarian cancer community since 1996, providing vital support, resources, and advocacy for those affected by the disease. After Cheryl’s passing, I discovered Ovacome and realized that their mission aligned perfectly with my own—raising awareness and funds to fight ovarian cancer. Since then, my wife (affectionately known as Mrs. Ovary) and I have dedicated ourselves to supporting this incredible charity. To date, we’ve raised over £70,000, and we’re determined to do even more.
Understanding B.E.A.T. – Recognising the Symptoms
One of the biggest challenges with ovarian cancer is recognising its symptoms early. Ovacome promotes the simple yet powerful B.E.A.T. acronym to help women identify potential warning signs:
B is for Bloating that doesn’t come and go
E is for Eating difficulties and feeling full quickly
A is for Abdominal or pelvic pain most days
T is for Toilet changes, such as changes in urination or bowel habits
Cheryl’s Legacy
Cheryl was an incredible person—kind, empathetic, and deeply committed to helping others through her work as an NHS speech therapist. Through my fundraising efforts, I’ve not only honored her memory but also found purpose in spreading awareness. Cheryl’s legacy continues through every conversation started, every donation made, and every life saved through early detection.
How You Can Help
You don’t need to run a marathon in an ovary costume to make a difference (though you’re welcome to join me!). There are many ways to get involved—whether it’s hosting a coffee morning, organising a bake sale, or simply sharing information about ovarian cancer with your community.
Fundraising can be incredibly rewarding, giving you a sense of purpose and connecting you with a supportive community. If you’re interested in getting involved, Ovacome’s expert team can help with fundraising ideas and guidance. Reach out at fundraising@ovacome.org.uk or call 07767 619462. You can also find helpful tips on their website: www.ovacome.org.uk/fundraising-tips.
Dates for Your Diary – Get Involved!
With Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month taking place in March, now is the perfect time to take action. One fantastic opportunity is The Women’s Run Series, with events across the UK. The first event, on 8th March (International Women’s Day) in London, is a great way to raise awareness while taking part in something empowering.
If you’d like to follow my journey or join in, here are some of my upcoming events:
Cambridge Half Marathon – 3rd March 2025
Zurich Half Marathon – 13th April 2025
Sydney Marathon – 31st August 2025 (TBC)
Great North Run – 7th September 2025
Great South Run – 19 October 2025
I hope this article has helped raise awareness of ovarian cancer and emphasised the urgent need for more education and early detection efforts. Every conversation, every fundraiser, and every shared piece of information brings us one step closer to a future where no woman has to face ovarian cancer unaware of the warning signs.
Let’s work together to make a difference. Spread the word, support Ovacome, and help save lives.
By Craig McMurrough (Mr Ovary) – linkedin.com/in/craigmcmurrough / www.ovacome.org.uk/Fundraisers/help-mr-ms-ovary-to-make-a-difference-to-those-affected-by-ovarian-cancer
