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 Tamara Padron, and I’m living with Stage IV metastatic breast cancer — the kind that doesn’t have a cure. This fundraiser is for April — my sister in spirit, bonded by battle. We lifted each other up in ways only fellow fighters truly understand — trading stories, sarcasm, strength, and support through every hard chapter and every small victory. Her strength, her wit, and her heart still guide me — and I’ll never stop fighting for her.
April passed away in June 2024 from metastatic breast cancer, and her absence still hurts every single day. But I promised her I would keep fighting. For both of us.
I was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in October 2019, and like many others, I quickly learned how underfunded and underrepresented Stage IV truly is. Despite being the only breast cancer stage that is terminal, less than 5% of all breast cancer research funding goes toward metastatic disease.
That's why I’ve chosen to support METAvivor — one of the only organizations in the U.S. fully dedicated to funding research and support services for people like me, like April, and like the thousands of others silently fighting every day.
I’m fundraising because:
Whether it’s $5, $50, or just sharing this page, thank you for honoring April’s memory and helping me turn loss into action. Together, we can shift the future for those living with Stage IV.
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!