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!

IN LOVING MEMORY:

Ashley Rizzuto gained her angel wings on August 26th, 2024 at the young age of 41. She is survived by her husband Chris, young son Dominic who just started his 1st day of kindergarten, and many other family members whose hearts are shattered.  Ashley had a beautiful smile and positive energy that filled the room. We hope the best memories live in your hearts forever. Thanks to all for supporting metastastic breast cancer research that will help future generations. 

Ashley's Story:

In July 2021, right before my 38th birthday, I got the devastating news: "You have cancer." Originally, my diagnosis was stage 2, and the plan was a lumpectomy, followed by radiation. After several more scans and tests, they discovered it had already metastasized to my liver. Even today, it can still be difficult to process this diagnosis. I was immediately put on targeted therapy plus hormone blockers. In just 3 months, the cancer in my breast, lymph nodes, and liver was gone. However, that didn't last long, and I have since changed treatments twice and recently underwent a targeted radiation treatment for my liver.

The hardest part of having cancer is what goes through your mind - the constant fear of the unknown and always worried about what the cancer is doing and what might happen next. Thanks to my faith, my family and friends, and the various lifestyle changes I have made, I have been able to cope fairly well. Cancer changes you - it changes the way you think and how you live your life. I have a 4 year old son - all I want now is to be here a long time for him, to make memories together, to laugh together, and to love each other.

METAvivor has become so important to me throughout this journey. The treatments I am on saved my life and have enabled me to live a very normal life. More funding, research, and awareness is needed to continue developing these amazing treatments - for all of us. I have met some amazing women with MBC, who have been a huge support system for me. The work METAvivor does for stage 4 metastatic breast cancer thrivers is amazing - we need more research, more treatments, and, hopefully, someday, a cure.

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!