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
I am only alive and thriving because of the treatment options available through research for Metastatic Breast Cancer. Every day hundreds of people die of MBC breast cancer. We need more research to save lives. Here's why I raise funds for METAvivor.
Breast Cancer has been walking side by side in my life for 20 years! The Fabulous 40's were upon me and not long after that birthday I was diagnosed for the first time with early stage BC. After a Lumpectomy to remove the small tumor, 8 weeks of radiation and 5 years of Tamoxifin I was declared cancer free. In 2017 "IT" decided it wanted to pay me another visit and returned in both breasts. Unfortunatley I had to endure a masectomy with DIEP Flap reconstruction, a 10.5 hour surgery and very long recovery. If that wasn't enough it reared it's ugly head again in 2020, but this time with Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer, which means the cancer spread to other parts of the body. It was now in my lungs, lymph nodes in the chest and small spot on my spine. But I was able to thrive and have a relativley great two years on a treatment plan. After 2 years those meds stopped working and the cancer progressed. I became sicker than I have ever been in these 20 years and finally had to sucumb to IV Chemo. These last 6 months have been the absolute hardest and have taken my quality of life as I know it. It has been a very difficult physical and emotional journey, yet it has taught me unimaginable strenght and gratitute for my life. But we need more and better treatment options so we can live longer and better.
I lost my beautiful mother to MBC. It is too late for her, but not for me. I am thriving due to the treatments available today, but we need way more research for Metastatic Breast Cancer !
MBC is the only form of breast cancer that kills, not early stage. Yet while MBC claims the lives of hundreds daily, LESS THAN 5% of U.S. breast cancer funds raised go toward researching new treatments for it. That is insane!! There is no cure or beating MBC, just buying time via treatment. So, we obviously need a HUGE amount more funds going towards MBC research.
30% of people with early-stage breast cancer who’ve “beat” the disease will eventually see it return as stage IV, also known as advanced or metastatic breast cancer.
METAvivor is the only organization that solely funds MBC research through a scientific peer review process. If you would like to make a donation this month, I and many others would appreciate it. 90% of your donation goes toward supporting grants for metastatic breast cancer research.
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!