By: Merilyn Brie
Honoring Ovarian Cancer Survivor Louise Altese-Isidori
On Monday, November 24, more than 65 women gathered at an intimate luncheon to show their support for H.O.W. (Hearing the Ovarian Cancer Whisper), an organization dedicated to raising awareness and funding for ovarian cancer research.
This special event, held at the beautiful home of Andrea Stark, was organized by the 2026 H.O.W. Luncheon Co-Chairs Andrea Stark, Robbi Toll, Liz Feuer, and Wendy Topkis, and provided an opportunity to hear the inspiring journey of ovarian cancer survivor, Louise Altese-Isidori.
Guests were treated to an elegant Italian lunch, curated by Louise’s husband, the Michelin-starred Chef Joe Isidori, founder of the acclaimed Italian-American restaurant Arthur & Sons, which has locations in New York City and Bridgehampton and a new location set to open in Jupiter, Florida, in mid-February.
The program featured a moving Q&A with Louise, who courageously shared the story of her ovarian cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. Through her openness, Louise educated the attendees on the subtle signs, symptoms, and risks of ovarian cancer, underscoring the importance of early detection.
Louise’s journey with ovarian cancer began seven years ago. Despite her regular Pap smears, it wasn’t until she proactively requested a transvaginal ultrasound, an exam no doctor had ever suggested, but none had discouraged, that she discovered a large ovarian cyst. At the time, she had no symptoms, but the ultrasound revealed that her body was already riddled with cancer. The timely test led to life-saving intervention: doctors removed seven organs during a lengthy surgery after Louise insisted on having a non-standard test.
Today, Louise continues to battle cancer while simultaneously working with H.O.W. to raise awareness for others facing similar challenges. Her resilience and determination have become a beacon of hope for many women who are navigating the uncertainty of an ovarian cancer diagnosis. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of being proactive about health screenings, especially for ovarian cancer, which often lacks clear symptoms until it reaches advanced stages.
Louise’s surgery, which lasted 10 hours, was followed by an arduous 18-day hospital stay. By the time the surgery took place, the cancer had spread to multiple parts of her body, including her chest, colon, liver, and stomach lining. During the procedure, Louise had her spleen, appendix, gallbladder, uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and stomach lining removed. Since then, she has completed six rounds of chemotherapy, had an ostomy reversal surgery, and is now preparing to begin treatment with PARP inhibitors.
As a special surprise, each guest departed with a beautifully prepared Italian gift box from Joe and Louise, featuring Arthur & Sons’ signature marinara sauce, organic pasta, a wooden spoon, and a classic Italian dish towel.
Looking ahead, the organization’s next major event, the 2026 HOW Luncheon, will take place on Monday, January 26, at The Beach Club in Palm Beach, featuring the incomparable actress Christine Baranski as the keynote speaker. In a casual interview format, Baranski will answer questions from Guest Moderator Pamela Fiori, former first female editor of Town & Country magazine. Special guest Dr. Robert M. Wenham will touch on advances and treatments with ovarian cancer.
About H.O.W.
H.O.W. (Hearing the Ovarian Cancer Whisper) raises money to support basic or translational research in ovarian cancer through the Jacquie Liggett Research Fellowship. Women with ovarian cancer experiencing financial need are helped through the Jacquie Liggett Angel Fund. H.O.W. is dedicated to promoting awareness and recent advances in ovarian cancer by presenting educational programs to women primarily in our area. H.O.W. also supports medical students interested in gynecologic oncology by working with gynecologic oncologists during their elective time in medical school through the Dr. Robert C. Knapp Medical Student Award. H.O.W. also funds the screening of underserved and/or uninsured women for genetic mutations that increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations.
