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
Born in California in the late 60’s, my memories trace back decades. In sharing about myself, my name “Julia Michelle” is in honor of the Beatles – sweet songs that still bring me back to simpler days and tradition, “Midboe”: my family name – Norwegian, strong, proud – my grandparents built a family of 10, with wonderful cousins, aunts, and uncles; and “Hughes: the namesake of my husband of 14 years – what a ride we have been on for these 9+ years of Metastatic Breast Cancer. We met and married in Hawaii, and together with my two sons, we became of family of 4. In the years since my diagnosis, we have been blessed with family milestones, unbelievable blessings of advanced medical care, and opportunities to serve. Our faith wavered at times as we traversed this formerly silenced side of Breast Cancer, but Our God is bigger. When I was in my 40’s, doing monthly self-checks and then yearly woman physicals, the word was “early prevention, early cure”. Needless to say, I wasn’t concerned. I was raising two boys, teaching elementary school, and building a life with my Army husband. Life was on course, we had a plan, we bought a dog and a house. Our happily ever after had a different story line brewing.
On Friday, February 13, 2015, our lives hit a wall. “Mrs. Hughes, you have stage 2 Breast Cancer. An oncologist will be calling you.” Questions and tears ensued. Worst case scenarios followed. What about my husband? My kids? My parents? What about my job?
I felt like a rat in a maze of tests, “go-here-and-there”, “how did you get cancer?”, “you are too young”, “my friend had cancer and died”, “my friend had cancer and lived”, “my friend had cancer and works, “turn this form in”, “get a CT; echocardiogram; MRI; Pet Scan; bloodwork; medications; a Port; get affairs in order; bone biopsy; prepare your home, your kids, and your family; back a chemo bag.” Well, long story, longer: Just before my 6th and what was to be my final chemo treatment, other news arrived. Stage IV, Metastatic Breast Cancer. So sorry. You have about 6 months to live. Get all your end of life plans in order and prepare for your final moments/ final wishes. Oh, you can imagine the “shock ‘n awe” of it all. I was ready for another chemo – fighting the fight, bald head and all, it didn’t make sense.
Well, I look forward to sharing more of my story as I’m still here. To tell it myself. 9 years later. I have seen both of my children graduate from high school, and college. This time is my greatest desire, as no child should rise up without a mom. I’ve been here with my husband, as we navigate the ups and downs of 56 plus IV chemos, my brain surgery, and double hip surgery …. It’s not for the faint of heart. I’m still in active treatment, with bloodwork, doctors, scans, and more. Special thanks for all involved in this life “maze”, with special props for Brian Hughes.
Thank you for donating to Metavivor and #LightUpMBC. Aloha.
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.
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Thank you!