Story and Mission
Founded in 2019, the Barbara Leatherwood Fight for the Cure Foundation was established to honor the memories of Barbara Leatherwood and Angie Contreras, two courageous women whose lives were tragically cut short by ovarian cancer. Barbara passed away on January 1, 2015, at the age of 62, just 11 months after her diagnosis, and Angie on November 2, 2022, at the age of 39, only five months after being diagnosed.
The foundation’s mission is to bring urgent awareness to ovarian cancer, the deadliest gynecologic cancer and the fifth leading cause of death among females worldwide. Each year, over 295,000 women are diagnosed globally, with 80% in late stages. This devastating disease affects women of all ages, even as young as two, with increasing rates among those under 40.
What They Do
The Barbara Leatherwood Fight for the Cure Foundation focuses on:
Increasing Awareness: Educating communities about symptoms and risks to prevent late-stage diagnoses.
Providing Financial Assistance: Offering grants for lifesaving screenings like transvaginal ultrasounds and covering medical and non-medical expenses such as rent, utilities, and food.
Advocating for Equal Access: Supporting accessible healthcare for all, regardless of financial status.
Why Awareness Matters
Ovarian cancer’s high recurrence rate and lack of accurate early testing make awareness and early detection critical for improving survival rates. Sadly, many women lack the insurance needed for proper care. The foundation was created to fill this gap, ensuring no woman is left without support.
About the Founder
Deborah Leatherwood Milekovich, Founder and CEO, launched the foundation fueled by personal loss and a deep commitment to helping others. A graduate of America Medical School in Lansing, MI, Deborah holds certifications in Patient Care, EKG, and Phlebotomy. Her experience in hospice care and her dedication to supporting women in need drive the foundation’s mission.
Courtesy Photos-Leadership Team from L to R |Deborah Leatherwood Milekovich |Valorie Rene Kelly |Bret Odom|
The leadership team also includes Valorie Rene Kelly, sister of the late Angie Contreras and Co-CEO, and Bret Odom, Acting Vice President.
How the Community Can Help
Fundraising is critical to the foundation’s mission. The Teal there's a Cure Hope for a Tomorrow Ovarian Cancer Awareness Fundraiser, is scheduled for July 26, 2025,and takes place at the Hope Sports Complex and Cleats Bar & Grill venue in Lansing, Michigan. Proceeds will support patient programs and research initiatives at Michigan State University’s Department of Health. Performers includes Hit Songwriter and Michigan Country Music Hall of Famer Bernie Nelson, Multi Award Winning Country Sister Duo Calamity Jane, the high energy-Michigan based Ron St Germain band and more!
The foundation’s efforts are bolstered by partnerships with organizations like the Lansing Community Catalyst, which provides additional resources and support. The Chronicle News has also joined as the media sponsor for the event, amplifying the foundation’s message throughout the Greater Lansing and Mid-Michigan region.
Through these collaborations, the foundation is seeking grants nationwide to expand its reach and impact. These partnerships reflect a shared vision of creating healthier communities and addressing the urgent need for ovarian cancer awareness and support.
By raising awareness and collaborating with organizations like MSU and the Lansing Community Catalyst, the foundation is making meaningful strides in the fight against ovarian cancer.
For more information, visit https://www.ovariancure.org or email OvarianCure@gmail.com. Together, these efforts aim to save lives and honor the legacy of those who have been lost.
Registered Organization: 84-4083955