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 page! I'm glad you are here! I was originally diagnosed with Stage 3B invasive lobular breast cancer, ER/PR positive and HER2 negative. After treatment, I had several years with no evidence of disease before learning in November 2022 that the cancer had returned as Stage IV metastatic breast cancer.
Since then, the road has been anything but predictable. There have been treatment changes, difficult side effects, good stretches, setbacks, and a lot of learning how to live with metastatic breast cancer as part of everyday life. I am now on my third line of treatment and currently receiving Enhertu chemotherapy, with metastases to my skull, spine, ribs, pelvis, sternum, and liver.
Somewhere along the way, I developed a pretty warped sense of humor about all of this, and honestly, it helps me get through the craziness. My husband has also been my rock through every part of this. His support has carried me through some very hard days, and I truly do not know how I would have made it this far without him.
I became involved with METAvivor in 2023 and now serve as a Kentucky Peer-to-Peer Leader. For me, that role is about being a connection for others living with metastatic breast cancer—someone who understands what it is like to live with ongoing treatment, scan anxiety, side effects, uncertainty, and all of the ordinary parts of life that still continue around it.
These days, I try not to look too far ahead. I take things moment by moment and pay attention to what my body needs that day. Some days that means doing more. Other days it means resting, changing plans, or simply giving myself permission to do less.
Living with Stage IV breast cancer has changed the way I move through the world. I do not have a perfect formula for it, and I am still figuring it out as I go. That is one of the reasons peer support means so much to me. Sometimes the most helpful thing is simply having someone beside you who already understands the language of this 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!