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
Metastatic Breast Cancer is tricky. I was diagnosed stage 4 in 2020. Since then, my cancer has found its way around my first two lines of treatment. A recent progression shows new tumors in my liver and bones, particularly in my hips and spine. I'm now taking an oral chemotherapy drug and praying this one will keep the cancer at bay for longer.
I feel like I've been lucky so far. When I was diagnosed stage 4, I wasn't sure I'd see 2026. But thanks to those newly developed treatments, I'm still here.
My cancer journey started in 2015, just before my 57th birthday – I found a lump in my right breast. After a mastectomy and reconstruction surgeries, and several years of hormone therapy, I thought I was cured.
I was wrong.
Five years later, we discovered the cancer was back; it invaded my liver and bones. Cancer is sneaky that way. It looks for ways to travel to other parts of your body. This time I heard the words "metastatic" and "stage 4" and "there is no cure."
This "life sentence" crushed me and my dreams of working until I could enjoy a long, active retirement with my husband Phil. It threatens my assurance of spending cherished time with my adult children, extended family and friends. In its place are questions like "how long can I live on the available treatments?"
My first line of treatment (Kisqali - a targeted therapy that didn't exist until just a few before) was effective in shrinking my tumors; and I'd begun living a "new normal" of always being on some sort of cancer treatment.
Three and a half years.
In Fall 2023, my cancer found a way around that treatment. We started on my second line of treatment -- a chemo drug being used in new ways based upon innovative research into how drugs can get into the cancer cells. The extreme fatigue from the Enhertu was overwhelming, but it extended my life.
Three more years.
Then, early this year, the Enhertu stopped working. I'm now on my third line and wonder... will it work? For how long? How many options do I have left?
That's why I support METAvivor and #LightUpMBC. Critical research funding might lead to better treatments for me and so many others. And who knows ... maybe even a cure!
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!