Support Us Button Widget

Butterfly release to honor women affected by ovarian cancer

The Ovarian Cancer Coalition of Central SC will host a butterfly release on Thursday, September 26 at 5:30 p.m.

Butterfly Release.jpg

The annual butterfly release to raise awareness of ovarian cancert takes place on the State House steps.

You may notice more butterflies fluttering around downtown Columbia this afternoon. The Ovarian Cancer Coalition of Central SC (OCC) will host the annual Cathy B. Novinger Butterfly Release today at 5:30 p.m. at the State House.

The event honors women affected by ovarian and other female-related cancers and raises awareness. Each year, nearly 20,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, with over 15,000 losing their lives. If detected early, the patient has a 93% five-year survival rate.

Ovarian cancer, known as the “disease that whispers,” often goes undetected until late stages. While it’s too late to purchase a butterfly for release, you can attend the release to see hundreds of butterflies flutter in memory or honor of loved ones at the State House. Donations support OCC’s work to promote awareness across the Midlands.

More from COLAtoday
Columbia’s craft beer scene continues to evolve, with longtime favorites expanding, new taprooms opening, and several breweries closing their doors as the industry reshapes after a decade of growth.
Astral Development plans a 483,000 sqft mixed-use project at Bull Street and Elmwood, set to break ground in spring 2026.
It’s the season of the pumpkins, so we’re rounding up a list of places to go picking. Check out these patches, farms, and nurseries.
The number eight symbolizes South Carolina’s history — from the eight Lords Proprietors and colonial rulers to becoming the nation’s eighth state.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Columbia, SC has 230+ years of history. In this guide, we’re diving into the city’s oldest streets and how they got their names.
This year’s theme, Harvesting Happiness, sets the stage for rides, foods, music, and competitions at the SC State Fair.
If you’re short on time this season, this may just be the perfect solution.
Dining in Columbia is always a fresh experience, with new restaurants popping up all the time — and more on the way.
From toddlers to retirees, explore local schools and programs that keep Columbians learning and playing music.