By Jake Keiter and featured in our September 13th print edition!
Life’s path can shift in an instant. For Ashley Rizzuto, a dedicated behavior analyst working with children with autism in Seattle, her world took a dramatic turn when she was diagnosed with Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) shortly after the birth of her son in 2019. This unexpected diagnosis thrust her into a challenging battle, but both Ashley and her father, Dan Shuman, have since become tireless advocates for MBC awareness and research.
A New Chapter Begins
Ashley Rizzuto’s journey began on the west coast, where she was pursuing a fulfilling career as a behavior analyst. In 2019, her life took a new direction with the birth of her son. This joyous event marked the beginning of a new chapter, as Ashley made the decision to move back to the east coast to be closer to her family. However, her transition from new motherhood to patient advocate took an unforeseen twist when she received her life-altering diagnosis.
A Shocking Discovery
Despite feeling perfectly healthy, Ashley discovered a lump that prompted her to consult with her doctor. Initially, her physicians didn’t view it as alarming, but they decided to proceed with an ultrasound for caution. Suspicions grew, leading to a biopsy, and the shocking revelation that Ashley was battling Stage 4 breast cancer.
“Going from being perfectly healthy to being diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer in just six weeks was incredibly overwhelming,” Ashley shared, reflecting on the whirlwind of emotions accompanying her diagnosis.
Strength Amidst Adversity
The news was undoubtedly devastating, especially for a new mother. However, Ashley also views it as a blessing in disguise, as the responsibilities of caring for her son provided her with an unyielding source of strength to carry on.
A Father’s Unwavering Support
Throughout this arduous journey, one figure has been Ashley’s unwavering source of support: her father, Dan Shuman. Having recently retired, Dan has been able to provide hands-on assistance, accompanying Ashley to countless doctor appointments and helping raise awareness in their community and beyond.
“Having my father by my side has made all the difference,” Ashley confided, emphasizing the importance of having a strong support system during her battle against MBC.
A Journey Marked by Resilience
Over the past year, Ashley has witnessed progress in the reduction of her cancer’s size. However, this journey has been far from easy. Frequent doctor appointments, clinical trials, and medical interventions have become an integral part of her life. The relentless pursuit of effective treatments to halt the disease’s progression is a testament to her resilience.
Light Up MBC: Spreading Awareness and Hope
Around five years ago, an inspiring initiative known as Light Up MBC emerged. This annual event serves as a beacon of hope, spreading awareness about Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer and raising funds for critical research. The driving force behind Light Up MBC is the organization METAvivor.
METAvivor is dedicated to the fight against stage 4 metastatic breast cancer, filling a vital gap in cancer research funding and advocacy. When METAvivor was founded, no organization was singularly dedicated to stage 4 research, and patient voices advocating for more stage 4 cancer research were scarce.
Advocacy and Awareness Efforts
Dan Shuman, fueled by his daughter’s battle and his own commitment to the cause, has been proactively reaching out to local government municipalities, commissioners, and representatives. His mission is clear: to raise awareness about MBC and to request the designation of October 13th as an annual Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day. This date falls within the month-long observance of October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
To further the cause of MBC awareness, Dan Shuman and Ashley Rizzuto have organized their very own Light Up MBC watch party. This event promises to be a celebration of life, resilience, and unity within the community. It will take place at the Lebanon Valley Craft Brewery on N. 7th Street on October 13th.
A Celebration with a Purpose
The watch party will feature live music, inspiring stories of hope and courage, raffles, and special offerings. Importantly, every dollar raised at this event will contribute to funding research for Stage 4 Metastatic Breast Cancer. As Ashley and Dan passionately advocate, 100% of the donations will be directed toward this vital cause.
Shedding Light on MBC Research and Awareness
Ashley Rizzuto’s journey through Metastatic Breast Cancer has been a rollercoaster of emotions, resilience, and unwavering support. Alongside her dedicated father, Dan Shuman, she has turned adversity into advocacy. Their efforts, along with the support of organizations like METAvivor, are shedding light on the critical need for MBC research and awareness.
A Beacon of Hope
As we embrace the arrival of another autumn season, we also celebrate the hope and determination of individuals like Ashley and Dan who continue to inspire us all. Their story reminds us that even in the face of life’s most formidable challenges, there is the potential for strength, community, and change.
