What You Should Know: Sarcoma Awareness in July
Author: Dr. Claire Leegard
July marks Sarcoma Awareness Month, bringing attention to a rare but serious cancer that develops in connective tissues like muscle, fat, and bone.
Time and again, I remind my family, friends, caregivers, and clients: if something feels off—pay attention. Early detection not only saves lives, it gives people more treatment options and hope. Stay informed, speak up if you notice something concerning, and take advantage of local resources.
What Is Sarcoma?
Sarcomas are cancers arising from connective or “mesenchymal” tissues—such as muscle, bone, or fat—and include over 70 subtypes like osteosarcoma (bone) and soft-tissue sarcoma. Though rare—accounting for less than 1% of adult cancers—they require prompt attention.
Early Red Flags: What to Watch For
Sarcomas often begin silently, making awareness crucial:
- Soft-tissue sarcoma: Painless lump under the skin that grows over weeks or months. If large enough, it may cause pain or limit movement.
- Bone sarcoma: May present as persistent bone pain—often at night—with swelling that doesn’t go away.
Don’t overlook unexplained lumps, persistent pain, or swelling. As a DNP, I urge you: if it’s new, growing, or painful, get it checked early.
Caring for Someone with Sarcoma
When caring at home, focus on comfort, coordination, and connection:
- Symptom comfort: Manage pain, help with mobility, and support nutrition.
- Clinical coordination: Track medical appointments for tumors, biopsies, CT/MRI scans, and monitor treatment side effects.
- Emotional support: Your presence, listening non-judgmentally, and helping connect to cancer support improves mental well-being.
A multidisciplinary team—oncologists, surgeons, palliative care, social workers, rehab therapists, and pharmacists—is essential to comprehensive care.
Illinois Resources for Families & Caregivers
1. Treatment & Clinical Trials
- Rush University MD Anderson Center in Chicago offers advanced sarcoma care, including limb-sparing surgery and clinical trials.
- Northwestern Medicine provides nearby cancer centers, supportive services, and living-well programming.
2. Financial & Genetic Support
- Illinois CancerCare Foundation offers tumor sequencing assistance and targeted therapy programs for eligible families.
3. Community & Peer Support
- Sarcoma Support Group at Mercy Hospital (Chicago)
- Wellness House (Hinsdale)
- Imerman Angels (Chicago):
4. American Cancer Society – Illinois
Offers transportation, lodging, educational events, and 24/7 helpline (800‑227‑2345).
Join us in raising awareness. Whether you’re caring for someone with sarcoma, living with the disease yourself, or simply want to support others—know that you’re not alone. We’re here to walk beside you, every step of the way. Reach out today to schedule a free in-home consultation and learn how we can support your loved one’s comfort, independence, and well-being.
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