Mary E. Costello, known by friends as “Cos,” is a Social Worker by education, systems-orientation, and spirit. She is a former senior-level human services administrator and high-profile State of Maryland disability advocate turned full-service, independent nonprofit consultant. In addition to her proven effectiveness as a nonprofit leader, and her extensive background in organizational development and management—she is also a seasoned fundraising and communications professional. Incidentally, Mary has lived with de novo MBC since July of 2020. (more…)

Karen R. Edsell, M44’s 1st Board Secretary, died from Metastatic Breast Cancer on July 11, 2024. Karen was more than a Board member; she was our CEO’s Cancer BFF and True North, offering unwavering support, encouragement, and valued wisdom. Mary insists that Karen’s mere presence—through the relatively simple act of just “being there”—transformed M44 from Mary’s tentative, early ideas into the committed organization we are today. M44 exists BECAUSE of Karen. As such, she will remain positioned right next to Mary on this Board list… in perpetuity. (more…)

Alicia Frank Haviland was treated for early-stage breast cancer in 1998, with her cancer returning as Metastatic Breast Cancer (MBC) in August of 2023. She then received a new diagnosis of Neuroendocrine Small Cell Lung Cancer (SCLC) in July 2024, just one week after accepting an invitation to join the M44 Board of Directors. Despite the daunting challenges ahead, Alicia remains committed to serving the Stage IV community to the best of her ability. And now she offers the unique perspective of someone simultaneously living with two complex cancers. (more…)