STAGE 4 BREAST CANCER

Watch Us Soar- Being Stage IV

Living with Stage IV (metastatic) breast cancer is deeply personal, and no two journeys look the same. This page was created as a thoughtful gathering place for real voices from the Stage IV community — moments of honesty, strength, humor, and connection shared along the way.

At Learn Look Locate, survivor stories exist alongside trusted, expert-led education. For those seeking deeper understanding, insights from Dr. Rahul Singh and Dr. Ramji Rajendran help explain evolving Stage IV breast cancer treatment options and clinical trials, supporting informed conversations with care teams.

Emotional support is equally important. Through trusted resources such as Imerman Angels, which provides one-on-one mentor support, individuals and caregivers can connect with others who truly understand the lived experience of metastatic breast cancer.

FROM OUR PERSPECTIVE

STAGE 4, Philadelphia

Sammie

Hello beautiful people. My name is Sammie, and I shared my story after being diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer with metastases to the lungs. Sammie was a passionate contributor to Learn Look Locate from its earliest days and believed deeply in the power of honest storytelling, connection, and showing up for others living with Stage IV breast cancer. Her voice helped shape a space rooted in compassion, courage, and understanding, and her impact continues to be felt throughout this community.

In loving memory of Sammie · Her story continues to light the way.

STAGE 4, Chicago

Tricia

I’m Tricia Irene, and I shared my experience living with Stage IV de novo metastatic breast cancer as part of my commitment to turning diagnosis into purpose. Tricia believed in learning out loud, finding meaning through connection, and inviting others into real conversations about life with metastatic breast cancer. Through her openness, warmth, and generosity, she helped shape Learn Look Locate into a place where stories educate, empower, and bring people together.

In loving memory of Tricia Irene · Her courage lives on here

STAGE 4, Philadelphia

Gina

Hi, I’m Gina. I was diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer before the age of 40. Living with metastatic disease has reshaped how I see life, connection, and myself. I share my experience to help break misconceptions about Stage IV and to remind others that there is room for meaning, identity, and living — even in the midst of uncertainty.

STAGE 4, Chicago

Karla

I was diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer in 2014 and was told it was a chronic disease that could be managed. I chose to focus on what I could control — caring for my body, reducing stress, and making intentional lifestyle changes alongside medical treatment. I share my story to remind others that living with Stage IV looks different for everyone, and that each person deserves space to navigate it in their own way.

STAGE 4, Chicago

Leslie

Leslie Ferris Yerger is a Tedx speaker, author of Probably Benign, and founder of www.MyDensityMatters.org. Leslie was diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer in November 2017 after an ‘all clear’ mammogram and ultrasound, experiencing first hand the failings of our current breast cancer screening technologies. She is now determined to advance the next generation in breast cancer screening, so that her story does not become your story.

STAGE 4, California

Laurie

My name is Laurie, in 1998 when I was 34 years old, I went in to have a lump checked and I was told I was too young to have breast cancer. Four months later I was diagnosed with de novo metastatic ductal breast cancer (ER/PR+, HER2- ) it had spread to one thoracic and all of my lumbar vertebrae, my left hip and the top of my left femur.

STAGE 4, Australia

Alisha

I’m Alisha from Australia. Living with Stage IV breast cancer has taught me the importance of owning my diagnosis without letting it define me. I continue to pursue my goals, dreams, and passions while navigating treatment. I share my story to encourage others to live fully, on their own terms, and to remember that this diagnosis does not take away who you are.

STAGE 4, California

Jaymee

Hi, I’m Jaymee. I was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer in 2018 and live in San Diego, where I receive treatment. As a writer and creative, I use storytelling, humor, and reflection to navigate life with Stage IV. I share my journey to encourage others to find support, self-care, and moments of light — even when the road feels heavy.

STAGE 4, United Kingdom

Fran

My name is Fran Bryan from the United Kingdom. I had primary cancer at the age of 35, I had a Mastectomy chemo radiotherapy and reconstruction, I then took tamoxifen for 5 years.

A Sanctuary of Authenticity for Stage 4

This page is meant to be a sanctuary of authenticity for stage 4 thrivers. Our goal is to start a global movement and change the conversation about stage 4. We hope this page is a source of hope and positivity while serving as a resource for connecting others from across the globe soaring through their stage 4 diagnosis.

Metastatic Trial Talk

Carefully selected news and features about metastatic breast cancer research, Metastatic Trial Talk empowers you with knowledge about the latest clinical trials, research, and treatment options for you to share and discuss with your doctor.

Imerman Angels

Imerman Angels’ mission is to provide comfort, support and understanding for all cancer fighters, survivors, previvors and caregivers through a personalized, one-on-one connections with someone who has been there.  Connect with them to find a angel who can help with your journey through Stage 4.