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
Beth’s Story:
I’ve included quotes to denote Beth’s own words from her February 2021 writing, “One Year Living with MBC”
“In March of 2016 (37 years old), I felt a lump under my right armpit (it turned out to be cancer in my lymph node). I was diagnosed with stage II invasive ductal carcinoma. I had genetic testing and found out I was BRCA-2 positive. I started chemo; AC, then Taxol, had a double mastectomy and full hysterectomy in August, then radiation. I would take Tamoxifen for 10 years. I thought I had done everything possible in order for the cancer not to come back, and for some reason I was not worried. I had gone through a terrible 2016 and I was done. If it did come back, it would be when I was an old lady. At least that's what I thought... I had a great few years living without the worry of cancer. [...] Fast forward to February 2020. I had been nauseous and vomiting off and on for almost two months. I went to my primary care doctor and oncologist, but I downplay everything, so no scans were ordered. My primary care doctor thought it may be my gallbladder. I finally went to the ER and a CT was done. The doctor came in and said "you have tumors in 60% of your liver." [...] I saw my oncologist the next day and learned quickly. Here is what I heard: "Stage IV, no cure, treatment for the rest of your life, we'll order an MRI to be sure it's not in your brain." That basically sums it up anyway. All I could think was, I want to be around to see my kids grow up. So, at 41 years old I am diagnosed with terminal cancer. I have tumors in more than half of my liver and a few in my bones. Life is never what you expect it will be.”
Beth passed away August 30, 2021, at the age of 42. She is terribly missed and was an incredible mother, wife, daughter, sister, and friend to literally everyone. She taught Exceptional Student Education (ESE) for 21 years. For the last decade, she taught at Duval Charter School at Baymeadows and Coastal, inspiring countless students, and fellow teachers.
Beth found a great deal of comfort and encouragement from METAvivor, its resources, and the online support groups of individuals going through this disease. Her family is hosting this #LightUpMBC Glow Walk to increase awareness for metastatic breast cancer and to help raise money to advance research, fund effective treatment plans, and help find a cure for others currently living with this disease as soon as possible. Join us on October 14th in memory of Beth, and to support the life-saving mission of METAvivor. Link to register is HERE!
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!