Chondrosarcoma Awareness

Hi, my name is Amber Sarcone, and I am fundraising for the Chondrosarcoma Foundation; in honor of Chondrosarcoma Awareness Day coming up on February 6th.

 

What is Chondrosarcoma? Chondrosarcoma is an extremely rare form of bone cancer that develops in cartilage cells, particularly in the femur, arm, pelvis, knee, and ribs. The exact cause of CS  is unknown. The most common treatment for CS is the removal of the tumor. If cancer affects the arm or the leg, the surgeon will try to save the limb, but amputation is the solution in many cases. While chemotherapy or radiation often fail to stop the spread, it is the only other treatment option available.

 

On March 7, 2021, my entire life changed forever when I noticed a strange bump on my hip and was later diagnosed with an 11 cm malignant tumor growing on my pelvis bone. On April 16, 2021, I endured a 12-hour reconstructive surgery at the University of Pennsylvania Hospital, including two blood transfusions. I had two incredible surgeons working together to remove my right pelvic bone and reconstruct it with my fibula bone from my leg. Nine months later, I have no evidence of reoccurrence (NERD) while still recovering in PT in hopes of being able to walk one day again. Every day I experience chronic pain due to the intensity of the surgery, and it has been a challenge for my team to treat the pain due to the lack of information/research available. I miss doing things and activities that gave me joy, such as walking my dog and playing with her at the park. Going on runs, cleaning, taking care of house chores, cooking, attending social events without being in pain or having social anxiety, sleeping comfortably, going out dancing with my girlfriends,  etc.

 

There is no cure for CS. My goal is to help bring awareness and educate the public on this rare bone and soft tissue cancer that affects only 3,000 people worldwide each year, less than 1% of the population. I want to raise money for this cause and support patients and their families suffering from this rare disease.

 

February 6, the official "Chondrosarcoma Awareness Day," brings a whole new meaning to my life. I am blessed and fortunate that I could defy the odds and win this battle against this rare disease. I kindly ask that you get the word out to your family, friends, and co-workers to join us in the effort to support increased research and clinical trials. If a donation is difficult to make at this time, I kindly ask that you sign the petition to support Chondrosarcoma Research and Clinical Trials at Chondrosarcoma Petition.

 

Wear a Yellow Ribbon and take a picture with your friends, family, and co-workers on social media and use the hashtag #CSwecare

 

No amount is too small. With your continuous help and generous contribution, No One Fights Alone. Thank you.