More than 15 years after losing her daughter Katie to a rare and aggressive ovarian cancer, Elizabeth Oppo continues to turn grief into action—rallying the Manhasset community around a cause rooted in strength, resilience and hope.
The Katie Oppo Memorial 5K Run/Walk will take place June 14 at 9 a.m. in Manhasset, with participants gathering near Flower Hill Village Park.
Oppo, who has lived in Manhasset for nearly 30 years, leads the Katie Oppo Research Fund and organizes the annual event known as “Run for Katie.” The 5K draws several hundred participants each year, from competitive runners to families with strollers, all coming together in support of ovarian cancer research.
“We consider it a memorial run,” Oppo said. “It’s a legacy for our family to fight, to battle ovarian cancer.”
The race itself reflects that inclusive spirit. Timed runners set off first, followed by walkers, then participants with dogs and strollers—creating an upbeat and welcoming atmosphere for all ages and abilities.
Katie, who was raised in Manhasset, was just 18 and a pre-med student when she was diagnosed with small cell carcinoma of the ovary, hypercalcemic type (SCCOHT), a rare and often deadly form of the disease. Those who knew her remember a young woman defined by kindness and determination. Even as she faced a difficult prognosis, she sought out information, connected with other patients and remained focused on one goal: to beat the disease and give back.
“She was a very strong person and very courageous,” Oppo said. “She did not give up hope… not until the very last.”
That strength became a guiding force for her mother.
“When I saw how she handled her disease, it made me a stronger, better person,” Oppo said. “I had to live up to the legacy of her strength and her courage.”
In the years since, the fund has supported clinical trials, research partnerships and a global tumor registry focused on SCCOHT. Yet the effort remains deeply rooted in Manhasset.
Source: LI Press
