Tammy Ezell was diagnosed with Stage III ovarian cancer in March 2025. By the time of diagnosis, the cancer had already metastasized into her abdominal wall and throughout her abdomen. She began chemotherapy shortly thereafter.
A chili, beans and cornbread benefit for her will be from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. Feb. 25 at the Bryan County Fairgrounds.
In June 2025, she underwent surgery with the hope of removing her ovaries, performing a complete hysterectomy, and possibly addressing issues with her bowel. However, once surgeons opened her abdomen, they discovered that the cancer had completely covered her stomach and bowels. Operating would have required removing her stomach and bowels, leaving Ezell without any quality of life. The heartbreaking decision was made to do nothing surgically and continue chemotherapy instead.
On December 31, 2025, Ezell returned to surgery once again. The plan was to perform a hysterectomy, remove her ovaries and spleen, complete a bowel resection, and possibly remove portions of her stomach and liver. Tragically, once again, surgeons found that the cancer completely covered her small bowel and much of her lower large bowel. Once again, surgery was not an option, as it would have taken away any chance at quality of life.
She started a new chemotherapy regimen aimed at fighting this platinum-resistant cancer in her abdomen.
Doctors have explained that this cancer is especially difficult to detect on imaging because it does not form large tumors. Instead, it spreads like a thin, cake-like wall that coats and covers everything inside.
Ezell continues to fight with strength, courage, and grace. This benefit is being held to help support her and her family as they walk this difficult road together.