The Metavivors NZ Facebook group was set up by BCAC in early 2014 in order to advocate for better treatment and care for people with metastatic (also known as secondary, advanced or stage 4) breast cancer.

Support and friendship

Metavivors NZ is a safe and supportive online community for New Zealanders living with metastatic breast cancer. It aims to provide mutual support, friendship, information and strength to all those who find themselves facing diagnosis and treatment for advanced breast cancer. 

To join the Metavivors NZ Facebook group please email: bcac@breastcancer.org.nz

If you would like a printed copy of the Metavivors NZ brochure please email us at bcac@breastcancer.org.nz with your request.

Speaking up for positive change

The Metavivors NZ group provides a voice for people with advanced breast cancer in New Zealand in order to raise awareness of their specific needs and to advocate for medicines, treatment options and support.

Those in the group who choose to do so are speaking out more and more publicly, including achieving significant media coverage and speaking to MPs who can make a difference. Read more here.

We have also created a new private Metavivors NZ – Action Facebook group for people who want to be more involved in advocating for better treatment and care for those with advanced breast cancer.

What is a ‘metavivor’?

The term ‘metavivor’ refers to women and men who are living and thriving with secondary breast cancer and recognises that many people can live for years with metastatic cancer. Secondary breast cancer is also known as metastatic, advanced or Stage Four breast cancer.

Metavivors in the US

There is a strong ‘metavivor’ movement in the United States where women with secondary breast cancer are extremely vocal about the need for research into advanced breast cancer. To read more visit:www.metavivor.org

For more support:

BCAC Member group Sweet Louise offers support and advice for women living with metastatic breast cancer. Visit their website or email info@sweetlouise.co.nz or phone 0800 11 22 77.

For information and stories:

You will find an excellent article and slides here: Metastatic Breast Cancer: The Advice I Needed Most

For more information on secondary breast cancer please click here: http://www.breastcancer.org.nz/Support/Secondary

For videos of Metavivors describing their experience with metastatic cancer, please click here: https://www.breastcancer.org.nz/metavivor-videos