Cancer is unfortunately the one thing in the world that holds no prejudice and takes the lives of our loved ones everyday. I’ll never forget the day my best friend called saying her mom found a lump and was worried it was breast cancer. Of course I assured her it was probably nothing to be concerned about, but little did I know that phone call would be the beginning of a journey I never wanted to see her embark. Her mom had felt a lump months ago, but ignored it hoping it would eventually go away. At diagnosis we learned she had Stage IV breast cancer.

Over the course of the next few months, I watched as my best friend’s mom underwent surgeries, biopsies, and treatment. While I tried to remain as optimistic as possible for my friend, I knew this roller coaster ride was one that would constantly be approaching severe drops and loops without any sign or warning. We received word that the cancer had spread to her lymph nodes and while they continued additional surgeries and treatment it was apparent the worst case scenario had become the reality.  I could remember crying every time we got off the phone, partly because my heart was breaking for her and partly because I was so scared to ever have to face that with my own mom.

 

Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) also known as Stage IV or advanced breast cancer takes the lives of over 40,000 people each year.

• 155,000 people in the United States are living with metastatic breast cancer, also known as advanced breast cancer.
• Breast cancer is considered metastatic when it has spread from the breast to another part of the body, such as the bones, liver, lungs or brain.
• Modern medicine has made advancements by leaps and bounds, however there is still no cure for MBC.

 

Faces of MBC continues to bring awareness around this deadly disease.

• Genentech has partnered with Living Beyond Breast Cancer, Metastatic Breast Cancer Network, and MetaVivor to recognize the 155,000 people living in the US with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Beyond seeking a cure, these women hope for more acceptance, support and resources. Unlike those with early stage breast cancer, these people will likely remain on treatment for the rest of their lives.
• To help understand MBC families’ unique support needs, Genentech created a survey and used results from the survey to develop a sequel to last year’s Faces of MBC video, featuring real women living with the disease and their supporters.

 

YOU can help contribute to cause with just a click of your mouse! Visit www.facesofmbc.org to view inspiring stories. Each visit equals $1 for breast cancer initiatives (up to $20,000).

Please visit www.facesofmbc.org,

follow @FacesofMBC

Use hashtag #MBCProgress and share with your friends and family.

Check out 5 Minutes for Mom for more information about MBC and Faces of MBC.

 

*disclosure- We are part of a campaign for MBC and received compensation but all opinions and stories are our own*