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
April of 2020 I had unexplained pain shooting down my left arm, my neck and my right arm. The pain alternated between these spots until August when it resolved. I felt great from August to November 2020. It then returned immediately after my 38th birthday.
The pain got progressively worse and I saw several physicians. I found out I had tendonitis, brusitis , tears and a bone spur in my shoulder. We thought this was causing my problems, but I wanted to be sure. I then saw an orthopedic doctor who when I told I had numbness in my fingers insisted my problems were stemming from my neck. After several MRI’s, he suggested I do a self breast exam and it was then I discovered the lump.
The cancer I soon found out was Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer for which there is no cure. It was in my neck, shoulders, liver and chest. I needed surgery immediately or I was at risk of becoming paralyzed if I fell or got in an accident. I had surgery within a week. The tumors had shattered my spine which is why I was waking up screaming in 10/10 pain.
By the grace of God and the help of several friends I was able to get in to the best doctors at Sloan. I truly consider myself very lucky that I received a diagnosis and was given a chance to fight. I am forever grateful to all the people who helped me along the way to get me to where I am today. I received an outpouring of support from friends, family and my community. To date I have received 18 chemotherapy treatments and currently my PET scans show no activity. I will continue to rescan every 3 months and pray the cancer doesn’t reactive/ grow.
I understand the reality of my chances at survival, but I have always tended to be the head of the class and I plan to shatter those odds. I will fight with everything I have to watch my beautiful children Madison and Mia grow up and help with my grandchildren one day. I plan on growing old with my husband. Therefore, I am doing this fundraiser to hope for myself and all my fellow pink sisters that one day there will be a cure for metastatic breast cancer. I believe I am in the hands of God, the great physician, and have total faith he will guide me through. Thank you for your support !
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!