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
May 2022 I was diagnosed with stage 4 metastatic breast cancer at 37 years old. I started experiencing back pain in November 2021. By December the pain in my back and neck was pretty bad. My boys were 4 and 2 at the time and I chalked it up to being a busy stay at home mom. I went to a chiropractor and then a physical therapist for a couple of months but the pain didn't get better. April 2022 I sought treatment from a pain and spine specialist who did x-rays that showed 2 fractured vertebrae. This was followed up with an MRI in early May. The MRI showed bone marrow disease that was suspected to be leukemia or lymphoma. I was sent to an oncologist who did blood work, but the results showed no signs of blood cancer so the oncologist ordered a bone marrow biopsy to see what was going on. The pathology report came back as breast cancer that had metastasized to the bone marrow and spine. It's crazy because I felt nothing in my breast. No lump, nothing. I breastfed my youngest until he was 2 and had zero suspicions that anything was wrong. I have no family history of breast cancer and I always went to my yearly gyno exams where they did breast exams each time. I too young for mammograms. Since I was diagnosed l've been hospitalized for a total of 18 days, l've lost 5 inches in height due to compression fractures in my back and neck and had to wear a back brace for 2 months, I’ve had a total hip replacement, biopsies, radiation, chemo and hormone therapy.
I’m thrilled to be an Ambassador for #LightUpMBC
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!