www.metavivor.org

Too much free time today:) I found this website, which focuses on metastatic breast cancer peeps.  from their website:

The concept is simple:  Since thirty percent of all breast cancer patients develop MBC -- a fatal condition, then 30% of breast cancer research funds and 30% of breast cancer support activities should be dedicated to MBC.  At present, only 2% of breast cancer research funds go toward MBC research and support for the disease is rare.

"People do not realize that metastatic breast cancer is widespread and deadly, and that it strikes on whim and takes 41,000 American lives every year.  Survivors think they are safe because they are 5 years out ... or were diagnosed early ... or were told they are 'cured', but MBC plays by its own rules." says METAvivor President, CJ (Dian) Corneliussen-James. "People diagnosed at stage 0 as well as 30-year survivors can and do metastasize.  You feel great one day and the next day learn you have MBC.  Your life can change that fast."

METAvivor has led the way in showing what can be done at the grassroots level. An all volunteer, non-profit organization, METAvivor was founded and is run largely by persons with MBC. Established in 2007 as a local (Annapolis MD) support program, the group began a fundraising campaign in 2008, became a non-profit organization in 2009, began awarding its own MBC research grants in 2010 and now, in 2011, is launching its 30% for 30% campaign to ensure research and support for metastatic breast cancer are commensurate with the prevalence of disease

PLUS! They have their own ribbon! I need a new ribbon!! :) Anyway, seemed like an organization worthy of our time and funds, or at least our consideration and the recognition that MBC needs more attention. One part  i found especially interesting is a discussion on feeling closer to other metastatic cancer peeps than other breast cancer peeps sometimes, because my breast cancer diagnosis seems so long ago, and on the surface has so little to do with what i'm facing everyday (it's the core, the reason for it all, and yet seems so irrelevant.).  It's a strange group to be a part of; not a survivor, not wanting to be a victim, not cured, constantly in treatment...it's nice to hear other people's thoughts about where they fit.  xojenox


for more discussion on this topic: http://gaylesulik.com/2011/05/dian-corneliussen-james-a-woman-on-a-mission/