Celebrate Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day
Metastatic breast cancer is a form of cancer that has spread beyond the breast to other parts of the body, such as the bones, liver, lungs, or brain.
This stage of cancer, also known as stage IV, is not curable, but treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
Many people are unaware that approximately 30% of early-stage breast cancer cases eventually progress to metastatic disease, even after successful initial treatment. Despite its severity, metastatic breast cancer often receives less attention and funding compared to other stages of the disease.​
Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day aims to shed light on the unique challenges faced by those living with this advanced form of cancer. It emphasizes the need for increased research funding, as only a small percentage of breast cancer research focuses on metastatic disease.
By raising awareness, the day seeks to foster a better understanding of the disease and to support those affected by it. Through education and advocacy, it encourages efforts to improve treatment options and, ultimately, to find a cure.
How to Celebrate Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day
Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day encourages people to learn, share, and support in meaningful ways. Here are some creative ways to take part.
Wear Something Meaningful
Put on something with pink, teal, or green. These colors stand for hope, healing, and understanding. A ribbon, scarf, or shirt can speak louder than words.
People often ask about bold choices—let your outfit start the conversation.
Share Real Stories
Post a personal message or someone’s story online. Focus on lived experiences. Honest stories often reach hearts faster than facts alone.
Use social media to spread compassion. Every share helps raise awareness.
Light Up a Landmark
Ask local buildings or spots to glow in symbolic colors. Many cities join campaigns like #LightUpMBC.
Even a porch light can shine in support. Simple acts brighten more than streets—they spark a connection.
Fund Life-Saving Research
Donate to groups that fund advanced-stage cancer research. Even small gifts help move science forward. Look for trusted nonprofits with clear missions. Fundraisers with friends add fun to a serious cause.
Listen and Learn
Take time to hear what patients truly face. Watch videos, read blogs, or attend an online event. Not every story has answers, but each one teaches something new. Understanding builds stronger support.
History of Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day
Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day started in 2009. A group called the Metastatic Breast Cancer Network, led by patients, created the day. They wanted to bring attention to people living with stage IV breast cancer.
At the time, these voices were often left out of larger cancer conversations. Many felt like they didn’t fit into the messages of survival and recovery shared during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The group chose October 13 for a simple reason. That was the only date they could book space for a meeting at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
That gathering brought people together who felt unheard. It gave them a place to speak and share. The event was so powerful that it sparked something bigger. That same year, the U.S. Congress made the day official.
Since then, it’s been a time to speak up for more research, better treatments, and stronger support. Metastatic breast cancer doesn’t end in remission.
People living with it need care and understanding for the rest of their lives. This day keeps their stories in the spotlight. It reminds us that real awareness means listening to every voice, even the ones that don’t always win the battle.
See what else is happening…
There’s always more going on every month at Days Of The Year. Here are our favorites this month!
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National No Bra Day
Free yourself from your constraints and go braless to help raise awareness about breast cancer, a disease with hundreds of thousands of new cases each year.
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