Every day 117 people in the U.S. die of metastatic breast cancer (MBC), also known as Stage 4, where the breast cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Funding MBC research is the only way to find a cure!
ABOUT ME
My name is Tameka Johnson, and I am a retired Special Educator, mother of a beautiful daughter, blogger, Tigerlily ANGEL Advocate, and Author who was diagnosed with osteosarcoma at the age of 13. Eighteen years into remission, I received the diagnosis of stage II HER2-positive, estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer in 2013, at age 31. The disease remained in remission from 2013-2016 when my doctors confirmed that my cancer had metastasized to my left lung and collar bone, and later to my lower spine.
Being diagnosed with MBC changed the trajectory of my life. I had to retire from teaching and stop working at the age of 36 because my body just was not the same. MBC is the most advanced stage of breast cancer, but it doesn’t have to be an automatic death sentence. Having cancer is scary, but being diagnosed with MBC is beyond horrifying because you know one day that your story will come to an end. After being diagnosed with MBC, I decided that my goal was to live my life. I began to see myself and my life differently. The things that I had once dreamt of doing, I began to do. Being diagnosed with MBC pushed me to do the things my heart desired and what I am purposed to do.
What’s different about MBC from the earlier stages of breast cancer is that your treatment and physical fight of the disease never ends. What’s unique about treatment and care plans for MBC is that they are constantly changing. Treatment is like a revolving door, and that's why MBC research is needed.
WHAT IS #LightUpMBC ?
The #LightUpMBC campaign is a global initiative aimed at raising awareness and funds for metastatic breast cancer (MBC) research to benefit METAvivor. Held annually in October, the campaign partners with hundreds of iconic landmarks around the world to illuminate in the symbolic MBC awareness colors of green, teal, and pink. By uniting patients, families, and supporters, #LightUpMBC shines a spotlight on the urgent need for more research and resources to improve outcomes for MBC patients.
#LightUpMBC Live is a dynamic virtual event that serves as the centerpiece of the #LightUpMBC campaign, bringing together the metastatic breast cancer (MBC) community and its supporters for an evening of storytelling, inspiration, and impact. Hosted annually on October 13 on Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day, this live-streamed program features powerful stories from MBC patients and their families, musical performances, and appearances by special guests who amplify the mission of raising awareness and funds for MBC research. #LightUpMBC Live provides a platform for education and advocacy, highlighting the urgency of funding scientific breakthroughs for the most advanced stage of breast cancer. For more info on how to watch, get involved, or view the list of participating landmarks, please visit www.LightUpMBC.org
TAKE ACTION TODAY
Follow @LightUpMBC on Facebook and Instagram to stay connected to our campaign!
Use #LightUpMBC and #METAvivor tags in all social posts to help raise awareness.
Support METAvivor Research and Support by making a donation through this page, and be sure to share with friends!
Thank you!