Sarcoma Awareness Month
How much do you know about Sarcomas? I didn't know a thing before being diagnosed with a rare one that only affects an average of four people in the entire country. Through social media, I have connected with three others who were also diagnosed with Parosteal Osteosarcoma. All women and all within the same age range when first diagnosed. Two of us are now above-the-knee amputees after running out of other viable options.
Sarcomas are a rare group of cancers that begin in the bone and connective tissue. They make up about 1% of all adult cancer diagnoses and about 15% of childhood cancers. Unfortunately, with rarity comes fewer effective treatment options, made worse by the fact that many people have little to no symptoms before being diagnosed, allowing the cancer time to spread and limiting effective treatment even further.
Despite all of this, the sarcoma community is a strong one, made up of passionate warriors who want nothing more than to spread awareness so that in the future, sarcoma patients will have a better outlook. Some survivors and their family members have decided to stand up and make change happen by starting non-profits to fund sarcoma research. I want to highlight two of these organizations for all they do. Should you feel called to donate to their cause, or if you would simply like to read more about them, I have included links in the text.
Move for Jenn-When Jenn Andrews was diagnosed with sarcoma and lost her right leg below the knee, she started the Move for Jenn Organization with a mission to help provide amputees affected by sarcoma and other illnesses with activewear prosthetics not typically covered by insurance. Move For Jenn has also funded clinical trials for sarcoma treatment and has extensive support resources for patients and family members available on their website. Stay up to date on local events benefiting Move For Jenn via their IG account-@moveforjenn
Wendy Walk- Wendy was diagnosed with Liposarcoma in 2008 and her family immediately rallied around her. Shocked to hear what few treatments were available, they created Wendy Walk to raise funds for Sarcoma research. Since then, they have raised over four million dollars for sarcoma research and continuously strive to ensure nobody has to face sarcoma alone. Wendy's mission is carried on by her children, who run the organization to this day. IG- Wendy Walk
To our Sarcoma Angels- Kasey, Sarah, Kiara, Wendy, Nalie, Deborah, and so many others, thank you for continuing to guide us even after your time on earth. We promise to keep the fight going and always remember how special you were, how hard you fought, and how much you loved. The imprint you left on our souls will never leave.
