Laurel J. Pracht, President
Laurel founded the West Valley Ovarian Cancer Alliance in 2011 to help women recognize the subtle symptoms of ovarian cancer within her community. She’s a 26-year survivor of this disease and hopes that through the education the Alliance incorporates into their yearly golf outing, women are aware of the disease’s symptoms. She works as a Research Patient Advocate with NRG Oncology, a nationwide research group, the National Cancer Institute, and within her community. She has been a Research Advocate for 20+ years.
She understands all too well how hearing the words, “You have ovarian cancer,” suddenly turns your world upside down. If she were diagnosed today, she would have many targeted therapies available, thanks to clinical trial research; she may have had very different treatment.
Karen Watson, Vice President
Carol Ann Kunz, Treasurer
Carol Ann is a 23-year ovarian cancer survivor. After moving from Chicago, IL to Sun City, AZ, a friend introduced her to WVOCA and invited her to join the board. Twelve years later, Carol Ann remains actively involved in educating women about the silent symptoms of ovarian cancer and raising funds for research. She is a strong believer in resilience, community, and the power of sharing personal stories to inspire and inform others.
Joan Cross-Zurek
It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Joan Zurek's passing. As a beloved member of our ovarian cancer charity board, her kindness and dedication were an inspiration to us all. Joan often said, “Not to spoil the ending, but everything is going to be okay ❤️." We will honor her memory at our future golf outings, where her spirit will always be with us. Joan was a devoted member of our Board and an avid golfer.
Michele Staples
Michele Staples is a 9 year Stage IV Ovarian Cancer Survivor. When she was diagnosed in 2016, she confronted it head on like she does with anything in life. As a former NFL Cheerleader, she was familiar with giving back to the community and she knew that she wanted to find an organization that does just that.
She has served on several of the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance committees including the Woman to Woman Mentor Program, the Capitol Hill Advocate Leader Program and as a Consumer Reviewer for the Department of Defense Ovarian Cancer Research Program. She has also choreographed an Ovarian Cancer Flash Mob to Rachel Patton's “Fight Song” that has been performed at numerous events.
She is excited to be involved with the West Valley Ovarian Cancer Alliance as a board member. WVOCA is a community partner of OCRA and they advocate for patients by raising funds for research to find a cure.
She currently lives in Surprise, AZ with her husband, John, and their fur babies at their Boston Terrier Ranch.
Diana Coplen
Diana Coplen has been on the board of WVOCA for two years. In my professional career as an executive officer in commercial banking I have served on many nonprofit boards. I am an eleven-years two-time cancer survivor. In addition to the WVOCA I am active in my church, two golf associations, getting together with friends for games.
Margie Black
Margie has been involved with various philanthropic organizations, including Susan B. Komen (Phoenix Chapter) Habitat for Humanity (Atlanta), and Junior Achievement (Atlanta Chapter). She joined the West Valley Ovarian Cancer Board in 2023 to support friends and family who have been touched by the disease. Her hobbies include golfing, DIY projects and learning mahjong.
Margie has resided in Georgia and Southern California, before settling in her current city of Sun City, Arizona.She has a daughter, and two grandchildren who are the light of her life.
Donna Pease
Donna Pease is a grateful two-year Stage IV ovarian cancer survivor. For five or six years prior to her diagnosis, she participated as a golfer in the Teal Tournament. During that time, she heard many speakers and received valuable information—she just never imagined it would one day apply to her.
After finishing treatment, Donna was motivated to join the board, wanting to help in any way she could. Working with an organization that helps fund research toward a cure for ovarian cancer felt like the right place to start.
Donna lives in Sun City with her amazing and supportive husband, who’s been by her side throughout her journey.
Susan Christopher
Susan divides her time in Glendale and Prescott AZ where she has worked in Real Estate for the past 8 years. She enjoys her 2 doodles, Bella and DaisyMae, playing guitar, painting and making jewelry for her therapy and enjoyment.
After losing her daughter Taylor, 26 years old, to ovarian cancer in 2023, her purpose now is to help fund research and support WVOCA with the help and guidance of her guardian angel.
“My profession is Real Estate, but my mission is greater - To transform each transaction into a cure and a legacy of hope!"