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
Welcome to my MBC Life! So many thoughts and emotions come to mind when I think about my diagnosis - and how I am choosing to live with metastatic cancer. Being diagnosed with Stage 1, ER+ / HER2- breast cancer in July 2018 at the age of 46, and after lumpectomy and reconstruction surgeries, radiation, and hormone therapy - I rang the bell and thought I had "lived through it."
However, in December 2022, after severe pain in my right shoulder followed by scans and a biopsy - I was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer which had spread throughout my bones (neck, spine, femur, cranium, ribs) and small amounts of cancer in my liver.
After a new dose of targeted radiation therapy, I was now trying to figure out the new physical challenges of this diagnosis and trying to navigate the mental and emotional stressors that come with this disease. Plus new medications, multiple scans, endless appointments, and side effects too numerous to count.
I quickly found myself "Living with It" - an incurable disease that is being treated as a chronic condition. I have learned to find JOY in the JOurneY and Until Further Notice...I Celebrate Everything! I have become very involved in my local community to support others and I work professionally for ABCD: After Breast Cancer Diagnosis, which offers free one to one support to those impacted by a breast cancer diagnosis. I am deeply moved by the work of organizations like Metavivor and the Light Up MBC Campaign and proud to have been a Light Up MBC Ambassdor in 2024 sharing my story.
I am here because my current treatments are working thanks to funding for MBC research, but there are too many of us DYING each day! Please help me support this important cause!
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!