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 name is Sarah Jackson. I was diagnosed with Stage 2, Grade 3 Invasive Mammary Carcinoma in the left breast, Triple Positive at the age of 33, in March 2015. After having a genetic test it was determined I was a BRCA2 carrier. I completed 4 months of chemotherapy followed by a bilateral mastectomy with a left axillary lymph node dissection and implant based reconstruction. In September of 2016, I was diagnosed with Metastatic Breast Cancer. It had metastasized to my right ovary and was discovered when I had a preventative hysterectomy. In 2018, I had a reoccurrence in the left breast. (Invasive Ductal Carcinoma, grade 3 with high grade DCIS). I began another 4 months of chemotherapy in January 2019. June 12, 2019 I had my second bilateral mastectomy with Aesthetic Flat Closure, followed by 33 rounds of radiation. I take a chemo pill daily, and have Kanjinti & Perjeta infusions every three weeks, indefinitely. I always say I am fortunate in an unfortunate situation. It has taken me along time to get to a point where I wanted to share my story. It has been something so personal, so invasive, that has changed not only my life forever, but the lives of my family.
When I reflect on my life since cancer became a part of it, I often go back to a memory, on the trampoline in our back yard, sitting with all my kids and now husband, in a circle. Having to tell my kids I had cancer...it was one of the hardest conversations. Having to pretend to be strong when inside I was crumbling under my own fear of leaving them. I remember watching them sleep, crying silently, wondering if they would even remember me when this was all said and done. But they kept me going, my walls were covered with words of encouragement and love, papers hanging everywhere. We have shared many ups and downs with MBC, fears and celebrations. We have learned the importance of making new memories and living intentionally.
I am a mother to 5 amazing children, 2 boys and 3 girls. All which have a 50% chance of carrying the BRCA2 gene mutation. This is why I advocate. Research is the only way to cure cancer. I can not fathom the thought of any of my kids having to face a cancer diagnosis, let alone face it without me there to support and guide them through it. Help us to Shine a Light on MBC!
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!