It takes bravery, resiliency, and self-advocacy to navigate life with metastatic breast cancer (MBC). You may make decisions regarding your treatment and general well-being with confidence if you stay informed, ask questions, and connect with supporting communities.
Many times, living with MBC is like riding the wildest roller coaster. I go from gently climbing with my heart in my mouth to diving down with no idea where I’m going. I get lightheaded and confused with the ride’s twists, curves, and sometimes backward motion.
Yet, in the midst of chaos, there are moments of clarity and beauty. I’ve learned that even when I’m alone in this ride, a few words or quotes can ground me and fuel my strength. Here are the seven quotes that inspire me to keep going, even in the toughest times.
1. “I’m not dead yet.”
When I first received my diagnosis of stage 4 invasive ductal carcinoma, it felt like the world had stopped. My loved ones cried, and I feared the grim statistics: the five-year survival rate for metastatic breast cancer is only 31% source.
But I refused to be defined by numbers. I survived chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation, and each day I choose to thrive. Today, I am living, loving, and enjoying every moment, proving that cancer hasn’t claimed me yet.
2. “Life is not the way it’s supposed to be. It’s the way it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference.” — Virginia Satir
My dreams of starting a family and running a half-marathon were shattered by MBC. It hurt to accept my new reality, but it made me more resilient and appreciative. I think of my children, my family, and the moments I can cherish every day while I grieve for what I’ve lost.
Key takeaway: You can’t control everything that happens, but you can control how you respond.
3. “Giving up is not an option when someone calls you ‘Mommy.’”
Even on days when the side effects of treatment drained me, my children’s voices pulled me out of bed. Their need for me gave me purpose and strength, reminding me why I fight. Cancer may challenge me physically, but it cannot diminish my role as a mother.
4. “One day, you will wake up, and there won’t be any more time to do the things you’ve always wanted. Do it now.” — Paulo Coelho
Life feels uncertain with MBC. Planning for the future is natural, but living in the present has become essential. I focus on creating memories and experiences with loved ones rather than stressing over the unknown. Every small moment becomes precious.
5. “Everything comes to you at the right time. Be patient.”
One of the most difficult lessons has been patience. Every stage required patience and perseverance, from diagnosis to chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation. My mind and soul needed time to heal, even after my body had healed. Being patient means respecting your healing process, not just waiting.
6. “Tell the story of the mountain you climbed. Your words could become a page in someone else’s survival guide.”
By sharing my story online, I was able to connect with other people who are also dealing with breast cancer. Support groups, blogs, and Instagram turned into secure places for me to share, develop, and learn. Through my narrative, I now hope to empower others who feel lost or alone and assist others in navigating MBC.
7. “Knowledge is power.”
Being informed about your condition is crucial. I actively research treatments, ask questions, and engage with others in the breast cancer community. Empowerment comes from understanding your options, trusting your healthcare team, and advocating for yourself. Knowledge transforms fear into action.
Final Thoughts
Living with metastatic breast cancer is a journey of uncertainty, resilience, and hope. By holding onto empowering quotes, embracing the present, and staying informed, I’ve learned that cancer does not define me. It’s part of my life, but it will never dictate my joy, love, or determination.
