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
My cancer story actually begins many years ago, at the age of 16. I was diagnosed with a rare cancer of the ovary just as I was starting my senior year of high school. I endured two surgeries, the removal of my ovary, one year of chemotherapy which meant missing school for one week every month and countless scans. I persevered, graduated high school on time and started college a semester late, not a common occurrence back then. Determined to make sense of something so senseless I decided I was meant to become a doctor, to help people when at their most vulnerable. I graduated college in three and half years, also not common back then and got accepted to medical school. I fulfilled my dream, met a wonderful medical student who became my best friend and then my husband and had two, amazing miracle babies.
Thirty-eight years later, three years ago, I was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. I felt angry and betrayed. Betrayed by g-d because isn’t one time enough, betrayed by my doctors for not picking this up sooner, for not sending me for an MRI 2 years prior when I felt a lump, betrayed by my body because I followed the guidelines and had mammograms and ultrasounds every year starting at age 40 and angry at cancer for taking away what it inspired me to do 38 years before- I now would have to stop working.
I endured 5 months of chemotherapy, lost my hair, got a swollen face from the steroids, and had days where I “hit the wall” as my husband would say. I was simply too exhausted to move off the couch. I had some complications- an allergic reaction to the glue used to close my port, tissue toxic chemo leaking out of a vein, a blood clot in my arm and very low white blood counts to name a few. Following chemo would be surgery- a double mastectomy and lymph node dissection and then radiation. I naively thought cancer was in the rear-view mirror.
Almost 2 years ago I received the unfortunate news that the breast cancer had recurred in my pelvic bones, and I now face metastatic breast cancer. Just as I did many years ago as a teenager facing a cancer diagnosis, I knew I had to make sense of something so senseless, so cruel, so inconceivable. I knew I needed to have a purpose, an agenda each day besides trying to get healthy. I need to feel that I am leaving my mark on this world, doing something that my children can be proud of especially when I am gone. There are many worthy organizations that support breast cancer patients and research, but I was drawn to Metavivor, not only for the obvious reason, but also as a doctor supporting an organization that gives 90% of donations to research is compelling. It not only gives me a purpose, but it also gives me hope.
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!