Corpus Christi #LightUpMBC Fun Run

#LightUpMBC is an annual global landmark campaign, that shines a light on the importance of awareness and funding for MBC.

Our virtual broadcast #LightUpMBC Live will take place on October 13, 2023 at 8:30 PM ET/ 5:30 PM PT and feature inspiring stories told by MBC patients, illuminated landmarks and musical guests. The show will be live streamed through LiveOne and viewable on all METAvivor channels including Facebook Live and YouTube @METAvivor and at www.METAvivor.org/LightUpMBC

• Approximately 30% of early stage breast cancer survivors will have a recurrence as metastatic disease
• Metastases can occur as early as several months to 25+ years after treatment
• 685,000 people a year die from metastatic breast cancer globally
• Only 22% of U.S. MBC patients live longer than 5 years, and only 11% of live longer than 10 years
• There is NO CURE for MBC

Sarah Lopez Jackson

Jan Burch

My name is Jan Burch. I was diagnosed with Metastatic Breast Cancer ER+/PR+ HER 2 Negative de novo on June 1, 2017. Because of hip pain, I went to see an orthopedic surgeon who watched me walk and ordered an MRI of the spine. Next the doctor ordered a chest, abdominal and pelvic CT scan and a bone scan and called me 3 days later and told me on the phone I had breast cancer.

I made an appointment at MD Anderson and underwent a breast biopsy, and mammogram, a visit with the oncologist and a visit with a radiation oncologist who ordered a PET scan because of the pain in my left hip. The PET scan showed two cracks in my left hipbone and I was told not to put any weight on my left hip, so I was put in a wheelchair. Next I went through 15 rounds of radiation to my right and left hips due to cancer.

My oncologist said she ran the case with the tumor board and I would be on Ibrance, Femara and Zometa as my biosphonate.

I had a partial hip replacement of my left leg by an orthopedic oncologist at MD Anderson. I had physical therapy for eight weeks. I continued my work as a paralegal for one year after diagnosis. I quit my job and went on disability one year after diagnosis because I rarely saw my husband, my 6 kids and my 7 grandkids.

In April of 2021, I had my PET scan which showed a progression in my right breast and a skin met of the right breast. My oncologist told me I had the PIK3 mutation so I would start taking Piqray and Faslodex along with Zometa. I went to see the breast surgeon and decided to undergo a right simple mastectomy on October 21, 2021. Since that time, I have been NEAD (No Evidence of activeDisease). I developed Lymphedema in my right arm as the result of 33 radiation treatments.

I also have Osteonecrosis of the Jaw caused by taking Zometa, a drug to help strengthen my bones. I was scheduled for surgery to take out the dead bone, but while making my form for my opterator, the dead bone was pulled out. The good news for me was that there was healthy pink gums under it, so my surgery to remove it was canceled by the head and neck surgeon. However, I still have two teeth, one on the right and one on the left that is showing to be osteonecrosis, and my oral maxillofacial surgeon said we will treat it conservatively. My opterator is a retainer-like device that plugs the hole where 4 teeth fell out due to osteonecrosis. It also includes 4 fake teeth on the left and 1 fake tooth on the right. Now when I smile, you see teeth on my upper right and left side instead of two big black gaps.

I have spoken about my drugs and operations above. The most important thing to me, however, is what I do with the time I have left. I now have 6 kids and 11 grandkids ages 20 years to 1 year old, and my twelfth grandbaby is due on October 8, 2023. They are the lights of my life. I have 4 sisters and a brother. In addition, I have friends whom I have been friends for over 50 years as well as my MBC friends. These women and men know exactly what we go through each and every day. All of these people make my life so happy.

Many breast cancer patients are living longer, and on June 17, 2023, I will have my 6-year cancerversary. Only about 22% of metastatic breast cancer patients make it to their 5thcancerversay.

Happiness is a choice. Since my diagnosis, I find more happiness than before. I feel everything more deeply, including emotions, simple things like waking up to a new day, the smile on my grandbaby’s face, a sunset, a quiet day at home and the joy I receive from friends and family. I love to travel, watch my grandkids play sports, get together with my family and friends to make memories.

I am going to do everything I can to continue to stay alive to enjoy all the wonderful things life has to offer. I choose joy and happiness for all my remaining days. I am hoping to make the rest of my life the best of my life!

Jessica Moore was a nurse at a skilled care unit. At the age of 32, she was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer and passed away from the disease less than less than 4 years later. During her treatment, her family formed the Moore Fight Moore Strong (MFMS) organization. MFMS supports Jess' vision to shine a light on stage 4 MBC by producing the #LightUpMBC campaign and partnering with landmarks to illuminate in the symbolic colors of green, teal and pink.

Contact Sarah at sarahssouljasmbc@gmail.com prior to registering!