Debbie Hulick is not only the co-chair of the 2014 American Craft Exposition and an active board member of the Auxiliary of NorthShore University HealthSystem, she’s also an ovarian cancer survivor. She was diagnosed with stage three ovarian cancer in June 2007. With three daughters of her own, raising awareness and raising funds for ovarian cancer research has become a passion. The American Craft Exposition (ACE), which provides funding to the research efforts of her own physician, Gustavo Rodriguez, MD, was a natural next step after she completed treatment at NorthShore. 

Debbie tells us what led her to ACE and why research into this “silent” killer is so important:  

What is your role with the American Craft Exposition (ACE)?
I am co-chair of the 2014 American Craft Exposition and an active board member of the Auxiliary of NorthShore University HealthSystem.

How did you learn about ACE? Why did you want to become involved?
After my treatment for stage three ovarian cancer at NorthShore was completed, I found out that ACE was funding the ovarian cancer research efforts of my physician, Gustavo Rodriguez, MD, for at-risk women. Having three daughters, it was very important for me to become involved and help support this very significant cause. Today the funds raised at ACE are being applied to help better the lives of women in our community and I could not be more proud to have a hand in these efforts. 

How does ACE help women with ovarian cancer?
Funds raised at ACE support pioneering research being conducted at NorthShore that is already showing promising results in preventing ovarian cancer in at-risk women. Ovarian cancer is called the “silent” killer because symptoms are easy to dismiss and the disease is often diagnosed too late for effective treatment. More than 100 researchers are engaged in breast and ovarian cancer studies at NorthShore encompassing an array of multi-disciplinary programs addressing better methods for prevention, detection and treatment.

What excites you most about this year’s exhibition? What will visitors see?
I am very excited that we have over 30 new artists exhibiting at ACE for the first time this year, including artist Thomas Marrinson. His brightly colored ceramic bowls create a stunning display and are sure to “wow” attendees! Besides Marrinson’s work, visitors will have the opportunity to peruse and purchase stunning pieces from over 160 of the country’s finest craft artists. We also are bringing back our Craft in Action stage this year where visitors can watch both ceramic and wood demonstrations. 

Visit americancraftexpo.org for more information and dates for upcoming events with the American Craft Exposition.