At Stage, we’re all about empowering you with products and knowledge that lessen the burden of cancer treatment and recovery. So when we discovered Portt—a line of accessible clothing designed to make chemo infusion days easier—we just knew we had to meet founder Allie Tate!

Today we have the privilege of selling her line of thoughtfully designed tops, accessories, and gift baskets. Read below for Allie’s inspiring story battling ovarian cancer, and how it led to founding her own clothing company, plus her tips for navigating chemotherapy.

Can you tell us a bit about your cancer journey?

In the winter of 2019 and early 2020, I started having abdominal pain that would come and go. During a routine visit to my primary care doctor, I casually mentioned it, assuming he’d reassure me that it was nothing serious. Instead, while examining my abdomen, he felt a mass.

That discovery set off a series of ultrasounds, CT scans, and specialist visits. Eventually, I was referred to a gynecologic oncologist to remove what was believed to be an ovarian cyst. My PCP wanted to be cautious, making sure I was in the hands of someone who could immediately evaluate the mass for cancer if needed.

Much to everyone’s surprise, during surgery the “cyst” was found to be cancerous. I was diagnosed with stage 1 mucinous ovarian cancer—a shocking turn of events I never expected.

We loved learning about your background in textile manufacturing and passion for thoughtful design. Can you share a little about that and your inspiration for creating your brand, Portt?

I’ve always loved fabrics and making things, a passion passed down from my grandmother who inspired much of my interest in textiles. Growing up in North Carolina, I had no idea that NC State was home to one of the best textile schools in the country. I enrolled there as a freshman to study textile marketing and brand management, and during that time a start-up called Spoonflower launched in an old sock mill in my hometown.

I began interning with Spoonflower the summer of my sophomore year, and what was meant to be a short-term role turned into a 12-year career. My time there took me from helping launch the brand internationally in Germany to leading the home textiles department. One of my favorite parts of Spoonflower was seeing how it empowered entrepreneurs — anyone could design their own fabric in quantities as small as an 8" swatch. Supporting those small brands nurtured my love for thoughtful design that combines both function and beauty.

When I was diagnosed with cancer, I was frustrated by the lack of clothing options that were both functional and stylish for people undergoing chemotherapy. As a sewist, I made my own shirt — one that looked like something I’d wear any day but featured discreet snaps at the shoulder for port access. It gave me confidence and comfort at a time when I really needed both.

A couple of years later, after welcoming my son and beginning to reflect on my career path, I decided to take a leap of faith. I left the job I loved to spend more time with him and to build Portt. What began as port-accessible clothing has since expanded into a collection of apparel and accessories designed to bring light, encouragement, and dignity to the cancer experience — always with elevated materials, thoughtful details, and high-quality craftsmanship at the heart. 

Ovarian cancer symptoms like bloating, constipation, fatigue and pelvic pain can often be mistaken for other less serious conditions. When did you know you had a problem?

I’ve always carried a quiet fear of developing cancer — I’m not sure where it came from, since I don’t have a family history, but it’s been with me since high school. Still, when my ovarian cyst was discovered, I never truly believed it could be cancer until I actually heard those three words: “you have cancer.”

At 31, with no family history and having always prioritized my health, the diagnosis was a complete shock. Looking back, I’m grateful that I’ve always been hyperaware of changes in my body. Mentioning what felt like minor symptoms to my primary care doctor ultimately led to my early diagnosis. I also credit my doctor, who took my concerns seriously and referred me to a gynecologic oncologist instead of brushing them aside.

That experience is why I now encourage everyone — especially young women — to speak up if something feels different or off. Too often, I hear stories of women whose symptoms are dismissed until it’s too late. I’m incredibly thankful that I had a physician who listened and acted quickly, which made all the difference in my outcome.

What advice would you give to someone facing a difficult decision surrounding risk reducing surgery for Ovarian Cancer?

The first thing I’d say is to find a doctor you truly trust — someone who takes the time to listen, answer your questions, and walk you through your options. It’s also important to tune out unsolicited advice, especially from people who haven’t been in your shoes. There’s a lot of noise out there, and it can be overwhelming, so focus on the guidance of your care team.

I’d also urge you not to buy into so-called “miracle cures” that spread on social media. It’s tempting when you’re scared and searching for answers, but your best resources will always be your doctors and evidence-based medicine.

If you’re navigating this decision while also thinking about becoming a parent, make sure you really understand your fertility options. Talk openly with your doctor about what’s possible — including fertility-sparing approaches.

Most of all, trust yourself. This is your body and your decision. You deserve to feel confident in the path you choose.

What advice would you give someone who is just about to start chemotherapy?

First, I want to say: you will get through this. It won’t be easy, but you are stronger than you know, and there are so many people cheering for you. One of the most beautiful things I’ve experienced since my diagnosis is the kindness and generosity of others who have walked this road — the cancer community is full of people ready to support you.

Practically speaking, take the medications your doctors give you for side effects, and speak up if something isn’t working. Chemo comes with all sorts of unpleasant effects, but there are usually options to make things more manageable.

Don’t overlook your mental health, either. Chemo is not just physically tough, it’s mentally exhausting. My sister, who works in mental health, helped me find a therapist before I even left the hospital after surgery. I still see that therapist regularly, even five years out of treatment, because cancer has a way of weaving itself into your life long after treatment ends.

Finally, find little ways to bring joy into your treatment days. For me, it was things like wearing bracelets made by friends with messages of hope, or treating myself to a favorite meal afterward. These small rituals made a big difference and gave me something positive to hold onto.

What were your must-haves for chemo infusion days?

Snacks: I never went without a few of my favorite comfort foods — especially a classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Having something familiar and easy to eat made a big difference.

Something positive to focus on: After my first round, I posted a photo on Instagram and was blown away by the outpouring of love and support. I spent most of that infusion responding to kind messages, and when I told my therapist about it, she encouraged me to find a small, positive activity for each session. Sometimes that meant writing thank-you notes for gifts I had received, other times it was listening to an audiobook I’d been excited about.

A support person (or two): I began chemo in March 2020, just as the pandemic was ramping up, and I was lucky my infusion center still allowed one support person. My husband came with me, and having him there for company — and as an extra set of ears when I was receiving updates or instructions — meant everything.

Comfort items: Cozy layers, a blanket, or anything that helped me feel warm and cared for during those long hours.

Hand sanitizer: A simple but necessary item, especially during those early pandemic days.

What were the most helpful gifts you received from supporters during your cancer journey? Are there any favorite products from Stage you’d like to highlight? 

One of the most thoughtful gifts I received was a three-month subscription to HBO Max. I didn’t have it at the time, and it was such a treat to have access to new shows and movies I’d been wanting to watch — it gave me something fun to look forward to during treatment.

I also really appreciated the practical gifts. Things like meals, cozy items, or helpful products I could actually use day to day made a huge difference. Those kinds of gifts reminded me that people were thinking of me while also easing some of the stress of everyday life.

Honestly, I wish Stage had been around when I was in treatment. The site is so well curated and makes it easy for friends and loved ones to find truly thoughtful, useful gifts. At the top of my own list for starting chemo would have been Palermo Body’s Soothing Milk Bath, Londontown Facial Mist, and of course, a Portt Cotton Bandana. For post-surgery, I really love ESTAS’s line of scar care products.

Those kinds of items are both beautiful and practical — the perfect combination when you’re going through something as tough as cancer treatment.