#LightUpMBC   ○   #LightUpMBC IL

Heidi Punke Brown

Please support my efforts to raise funds for metastatic breast cancer research!

I'm raising money for #LightUpMBC to benefit METAvivor!

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

On July 10, 2019 I found a lump in my right breast. Seventeen days later I was told that I had breast cancer that had already spread to my bones, liver and adrenal gland. This came after 9 years of annual mammograms that were "not positive for cancer." My most recent mammogram was only 9 months before this diagnosis! In 2020 it spread to my brain. 

I received radiation for the tumor on my adrenal gland and radiation for a tumor in my shoulder bone. I have infusion treatments every three weeks and will for the remainder of my life. I have had three rounds of gamma knife to brain tumors. In 2024 I had surgery for laser ablation of the newest brain tumor - my 12th one. I also had surgery to remove a benign cyst from my lower spine. 

Since my diagnosis I have learned that I have extremely dense breast tissue that makes it much harder to see breast cancer on a mammogram AND is a significant risk factor for developing breast cancer. How I wish I had known known this before my diagnosis! I had never heard of breast density and didn't know I should have been receiving additional screenings each year in addition to my mammogram. 

Did you know that there are scare resources dedicated to researching Metastatic Breast Cancer? 

I am raising money for METAvivor because 100% of their funds go to researching Metastatic Breast Cancer - the only breast cancer that kills. I am raising money to attempt to extend my life. 

 

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!

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