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!
Here is why we raise funds for MBC research.
●685,000 people a year die from metastatic breast cancer globally
●Over 43,000 die each year in the U.S. alone. That’s approximately 117 people per day!
●Only 31% of U.S. MBC patients live longer than 5 years
●Average life expectancy is 2-3 years after a MBC diagnosis
●Approx 20-30% of early stage breast cancer survivors will have a recurrence as MBC
MEET the Cancer Messed With The Wrong Rack Team
Deborah Williams, MSW, MASc, Peer To Peer Support Leader
Deborah holds a BA in Psychology and a BS in Nutrition. She was raised in the Midwest with a Catholic
upbringing. Her appetite stimulus for knowledge landed her on the East Coast, earning an MSW as well
as a Master's in Holistic Medicine. After a barrage of professions, she ultimately settled as a University
Professor. Although she aspires to live in a world filled with books that come bundled with extra dark
chocolate and a force field around her keyboard that repels sticky-fingered children and dogs that lick
excessively.
In her personal life, she enjoys yoga, biking, swimming, spending time with her dogs, and volunteering
on multiple task forces and working as an Ambassador for various Cancer non profits.
On Aug 4, 2014, she was diagnosed with stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer DeNovo to her bones. Cancer
was not on her radar when hip pain developed 6 months earlier during a marathon, but here we are 12
years later, and living life to the fullest daily.
Without hope and research, the longevity of life would not be possible.
Jessica Hebert
Originally diagnosed April 23, 2023, with stage II or III, it was later determined after a CT Scan that, in
fact, it was stage 4, Metastatic Breast Cancer DeNovo to the liver and bones. Instead of treatment with a
finish line, she found herself suddenly facing lifelong treatment, scans every three months, and the
uncertainty that comes with living with metastatic disease. It also meant accepting the future might look
very different than imagenined. After a few failed lines of treatment, the previous ER/PR positive,
HER2-negative changed to ER/PR-negative and HER2 ultra-low.
The first year was the hardest. Over time. She learned to live with the uncertainty while continuing to
move forward. Her faith keeps her grounded, and her husband, three boys, and dog remind her every day
why she keeps fighting.
She continues to work full-time, travel abroad with fellow survivors with whom she has formed lifelong
friendships that would not have met if not for this disease.
Living with MBC means celebrating the good scan, preparing for the next one, and always hoping the
treatment you’re on keeps working just a little longer. Every progression brings another treatment
decision, and every new therapy represents another chance at more time. That’s why research and clinical
trials matter so much. Her hope-and prayer- is that science continues to move forward so that everyone
living with MBC has more options waiting for them.
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!