Our Mission Statement
Our mission as a non-profit organization is to advance research and promote education in the field of metastatic breast cancer. Our goal is to increase understanding of the disease and to accelerate the development of new and effective treatments. We are committed to funding cutting-edge research and supporting the work of leading scientists and medical professionals in the field. Through our efforts, we hope to improve the lives of those affected by metastatic breast cancer and ultimately find a cure for this devastating disease.
The time is now to find a cure for stage IV metastatic breast cancer.
Gitty Leiner, Founder & Executive Director
My journey with breast cancer started when I was diagnosed with stage I breast cancer at age 47. As a single mother to my beautiful young daughter, I underwent a double mastectomy, and reconstructive surgery, relieved to learn that I tested negative for the BRCA gene mutation. However, just eight months later, I received devastating news: breast cancer had metastasized to my spine, and I was now stage IV.
Despite the challenges ahead, I was determined to fight the disease and founded the Gitty Foundation for Metastatic Breast Cancer Research, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness and funding research. After undergoing radiation treatment for the cancer in my spine, I am currently in remission. However, to this day I take daily oral chemotherapy, undergo injections every three months, and continue my MRI and PET scans every four to six months. My journey has inspired me to advocate for early detection, improved treatments, and a definitive cure for metastatic breast cancer. I know that the fight against this disease is ongoing and I remain committed to my mission through the Gitty Foundation for Metastatic Breast Cancer Research. The foundation is dedicated to funding innovative research, and raising awareness of the importance of early screening and detection. My personal story is a testament to the power of hope, courage, and determination in the face of adversity, and the love for my child.
Between 20 and 30 percent of women with early stage breast cancer go on to develop metastatic disease or stage IV.
This means breast cancer has travelled to a different part of the body from the site of original diagnosis. We want to empower women to obtain early breast cancer screening helping save lives. With no cure for metastatic breast cancer, where treatment is lifelong, more research is needed to focus on why, how, and when breast cancer spreads.
The Gitty Foundation is committed to funding research that will lead to new treatments and ultimately a cure for metastatic breast cancer. We believe that by working together with patients, caregivers, researchers, and advocates, we can make a real difference in the fight against this disease.