Casey McIntyre’s husband reveals that she wanted her friends and loved ones to learn about her death directly from her. On November 14, McIntyre posted a message on her X account stating that she had passed away from stage four ovarian cancer. She expressed her love for everyone and her awareness of how deeply she was loved. McIntyre, who was 38 years old and worked as a book publisher in New York City, leaves behind her husband and their 18-month-old daughter.
Her death and her candid message gained attention on social media, as did her wish to eliminate other people’s medical debt through donations to the charity RIP Medical Debt. As of November 17, over $138,000 was raised for a campaign in McIntyre’s name. The nonprofit organization uses the donated funds to purchase and pay off medical bills owed by low-income Americans. McIntyre acknowledged her own access to excellent medical care and expressed concern for those who do not have the same access.
McIntyre was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2019 after experiencing abdominal swelling. She underwent various treatments, including chemotherapy, surgeries, and experimental immunotherapies. Her husband shared that she had tried everything for the sake of her family. Despite not having BRCA gene mutations associated with ovarian cancer, McIntyre battled the disease for several years.
The couple had initially planned a “medical debt jubilee” as part of McIntyre’s memorial when it seemed she would pass away in May. However, they were able to postpone it for six months. Her memorial will now take place in December. McIntyre’s husband hopes that her friends and loved ones can find solace in knowing that they helped alleviate medical debt for those in need, fulfilling her final wish. He also reflects on the cruelty of ovarian cancer and expresses gratitude for the time they were able to spend together before her passing.
Ovarian cancer is often difficult to detect early due to vague symptoms. Only about 20% of cases are found at an early stage. Warning signs include bloating, abdominal pain, difficulty eating, urinary symptoms, fatigue, upset stomach, back pain, pain during sex, constipation, and changes in periods. Risk factors for ovarian cancer include age, obesity, giving birth after 35 or never giving birth, hormone therapy after menopause, and a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer. There is no routine screening or early detection test for ovarian cancer. Regular pelvic exams and transvaginal ultrasounds can aid in detection, but women must advocate for themselves if they experience persistent or worsening symptoms.
