Breast cancer has affected us all in one way or another through our own mother, sister, aunt, friend or friend-of-a-friend who was diagnosed or passed away from the disease. It is a devastating cancer that has the power to hurt our lives in a terrible way. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, we wanted to highlight a side of the disease that often goes untold: Metastatic breast cancer (MBC).

What is MBC?

Metastatic breast cancer is the most advanced form of breast cancer. Breast cancer has morphed to MBC when it has spread from the breast to another part of the body, such as the bones, liver, lungs or brain. There are more than 155,000 people in the United States living with metastatic breast cancer, a disease for which there currently is no cure.Women with MBC will likely undergo treatment for their entire life. This life-threatening cancer is not just a patient’s diagnosis – it is a family’s diagnosis that affects everyone.

Support, Acceptance and Understanding

In order to better understand and support the needs of those affected by MBC, Genentech, who has partnered with Living Beyond Breast Cancer, Metastatic Breast Cancer Network, and MetaVivor, conducted a survey to get a sense for how those living with MBC feel and a snapshot of what we can do to help. 77% of respondents say that simple words of encouragement are truly helpful to getting through the day. In addition, 66% of women say it’s the little things that matter when it comes to support (check out these other great ideas on how to support a friend with cancer). Women with MBC hope for support, acceptance and resources.

The Faces of MBC

In honor of Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day on October 13th, Genentech and its partners have created a video called “Faces of Metastatic Breast Cancer.” The video recognizes the many people in the United States living with MBC by telling the stories of four women affected. It’s a sequel to last year’s “Faces of MBC” video. Each time the video is viewed Genentech will donate $1 to metastatic breast cancer initiatives (up to $20K). Please check out the video below and help: