Happy Women’s History Month! March is here, marking the return of our much-awaited First Friday Interview series! And for this special month, we are thrilled to spotlight the incredible Robin Cohen, founder of the Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation. As a tireless advocate for women fighting ovarian cancer, Robin embodies strength and compassion. Join us as we shine a well-deserved spotlight on this remarkable leader and philanthropist!
PPRG: What was your inspiration to start the Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation?
RC: I was Sandy Rollman’s oncology nurse. I took care of her every day from the time she was diagnosed until the moment she died at the age of 33. I knew that if ovarian cancer could happen to her, it could happen to anyone. At the time, it was difficult to find another survivor to connect her with, there were only two drugs and one clinical trial available, and very little support for patients and families. I knew I wanted to do more to help but I was a young nurse and I had a lot of self-doubt. I knew nothing about starting or running a non-profit. But, I knew what the disease could take. At the time of Sandy’s death, I was taking care of another patient. Her name was Regina, we called her “Reg.” I wanted to be like Reg when I grew up. She spoke her mind, was always stylish and had a heart of gold. One day, I went into her room and sat down next to her on the bed. She was dying from ovarian cancer. I told her my dream. It took all of her strength, but she lifted herself up, grabbed onto my shoulders and shook me and said “you go out and you fight for us.” That was a defining moment in my life. I never had a moment of self-doubt again. It was the last time that I saw Reg, but I have lived her words every day since. I go out and I fight for these women. While this was the reason I became involved, it’s the women and families that walk through my door each day that keep me involved. I am inspired by every woman’s story, touched by every family’s pain.
PPRG: What was a pivotal moment in your career where you were able to truly see the impact of the foundation’s efforts?
RC: It was actually at our very first meeting in the community. We called an open meeting and we had no idea if anyone would even come to it. It was standing room only and we knew this community was ready. At the close of the meeting, I overheard one woman say to another “you too? I thought I was the only one.” I knew at that very moment, we were already making a difference. These women who once felt isolated and alone felt like they found a home at the Sandy Rollman Foundation. Building a movement is tough, but exciting. We built it by people working together. Watching it grow and seeing the impact of our work has been incredible. People derive hope from it and from us. Another pivotal moment was when research that we funded made it to the patient setting. There’s no feeling quite like knowing you may be playing a part in another person’s survival.
PPRG: Women’s History Month is a time to recognize the resilience and strength of women. How does the foundation empower women affected by ovarian cancer to share their stories and advocate for better healthcare resources and support?
RC: The foundation empowers women by giving them a voice. We let them lead us. They feel the power of uniting. We give them the tools to be their own best advocates. Women come into our organization through their own journeys and they quickly find others with similar experiences. Together, we turn pain into purpose, hope into action. Together, we’ve built a sisterhood. Together, we’ve built an ovarian cancer movement.
PPRG: Can you tell us about the influential women who have played a significant role in shaping the foundation’s mission and efforts?
RC: The women that come into SROCF inspire and motivate me every day. I watch them pull out an inner strength that they never knew you had. I watch them make it through tougher days than they ever imagined. They have taught me about sacrifice, grace, teamwork and hope. They are the strongest part of the organization. How fortunate I am to witness their courage and test my own. I also think every day about the friends that I’ve lost to this disease. I think about what wasn’t available to them. They live on in the stories that I tell, the decisions that I make and in my heart forever.
PPRG: As a female founder and leader in the nonprofit sector, what advice do you have for other women looking to make a difference in their communities?
RC: Over the years, people have often asked how I mustered the courage to start the Sandy Rollman Foundation. How did I accept that risk? The truth is I didn’t really see it as a risk. To me, the real risk would be giving up a once-in-a-lifetime chance to follow my heart and my soul to something that would hopefully change my life and a lot of other people’s lives for the better. In the end, I decided the risk of missing such an opportunity was too great and it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. So, my advice would be not to wait and take the leap. The only thing that can be lost is a chance not taken.
PPRG: Philadelphia is a city known for its strong sense of community. How does the Sandy Rollman Ovarian Cancer Foundation harness this communal spirit to support those affected by ovarian cancer?
RC: Very early on, we realized the power of this community. Philadelphia is a city that’s all about family and community. I don’t know if our charity would have been so embraced if we started somewhere else. This city is all about its people and connections which is what we’re about too. As passionate as it is about its sports teams, it has just as much passion for its charities. It’s a city of grit and grace and we’re a charity of grit and grace. And when you see that grit and grace unite, it’s what keeps you going.
PPRG: What aspirations do you hold for the next generation of female leaders?
RC: My hope is that the next generation of women have a moment like mine in that hospital room all those years ago. A moment that inspires them, dares them to talk about their hopes and dreams, gives them self-esteem, the voice and the courage to take action. Today, there are so many distractions. If you allow yourself to be present in the moment-that’s how the next generation of leaders are born.
PPRG: What’s your favorite hidden gem or secret spot in Philly?
RC: Not sure if it’s hidden but ICI Macarons and Cafe!
It was truly inspiring to connect with Robin and hear about her impactful efforts in empowering women and her aspirations for the future of female leaders! Keep an eye out for the upcoming 20th anniversary of the Sandy Sprint Philadelphia 5K Run/Walk, happening on Saturday, April 27, 2024 at the Philadelphia Museum of Art! This special event features a 5K Run/Walk, Survivor Ceremony, and much more. To contribute or sign up for this event, please click here.