Rivkin Family story

Marsha Rivkin was more than just a beloved wife to Dr. Saul Rivkin, a renowned oncologist at Swedish Hospital—she was the heart of their family. They had five daughters: Melissa, Rebecca, Heidi, Amee, and Jessica, who ranged in ages from 12 to 30 when their world was turned upside down. At age 52, Marsha was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, a silent predator that showed no symptoms until it was too late. The diagnosis came at stage 4, and despite their hopes and efforts, Marsha passed away just two years later.

The loss of Marsha was a devastating blow. She was the glue that held their family together, the one who nurtured and loved unconditionally. Her passing left a void that could never be filled, leaving Saul and his daughters grappling with their grief and the harsh reality of life without their mother and wife.

Determined to transform their pain into purpose, Saul and his daughters vowed to fight back against ovarian cancer. They wanted to ensure that no other family would have to endure the heartbreak they experienced. Together, they founded the SummeRun to raise funds for ovarian cancer research and established the Marsha Rivkin Ovarian Cancer Research Center, which eventually became the Rivkin Center.

Dr. Saul Rivkin, with unwavering dedication, served as Board Chair for many years, guiding the center with the same passion he brought to his medical practice. In 2013, he retired, passing the torch to his eldest daughter, Melissa Rivkin. Today, Melissa leads the Rivkin Center as Board Chair, continuing her father’s and family’s legacy of hope, determination, and relentless pursuit of a cure. The Rivkin family story is a testament to the power of love and the enduring strength of a family united in their mission to end ovarian cancer.