Lauren was diagnosed in July 2015, aged 29, with Spindle Cell Sarcoma of the Bone. Spindle Cell Sarcoma of the Bone is extremely rare, making up just 2-5% of all primary bone cancer cases. Lauren has kindly shared her experience with us.
For over 5 years I had a lump on the palm of my hand, the lump was 2-4 centimetres in size and was originally diagnosed as a Ganglion Cyst. I accepted this diagnosis, it just became part of my life and I got use to it being there. I then started to have pain in my hand and it started to interfere with my daily life. A family member, who is a Nurse, advised I went back to see my GP. It was decided to undergo surgery to remove the lump.
When the lump was removed it was sent to the lab for further tests. I never expected to be told it was bone cancer, it was a massive shock. I had two more lots of painful surgery because they found more cancerous cells on my scans. I also had two skin grafts.
I was off work for a long time and had to undergo painful Physiotherapy for 6 months, plus counselling because of the shock factor and feeling low. I now have around 85% of the function back in my hand.
Being diagnosed with Spindle Cell Sarcoma completely changed my life, it made me look at life in a different way.
It has made me realise that there are so many things in life to be positive about and that everything does happen for a reason. I don’t take anything for granted now and I make time for everyone in my life as much as I can. I’ve learned that the best way to be is to be kind to others...you don’t know what journey they are on or what is happening in their lives - a little kindness can go a long way!
When things become difficult and you feel at your lowest, remember that there is always someone there to help you through it. Whether that is a family member, friend or work colleague, there is always hope and there are good people in the world.
Awareness is incredibly important because the more people know about signs and symptoms of primary bone cancer, the quicker it can be diagnosed and treated...giving more people hope in these horrendously difficult times.
The work of the Bone Cancer Research Trust is so valuable, especially to me...if I had not gone to get my lump checked after reading their website then there is a high chance that I wouldn’t be here today.
I’ve been incredibly lucky and I know that for others it is a different story. The charity is amazing not only in their research but in supporting people like me. Where would we be without them? I’m not sure...
Donate now (This link opens in a new window) More about Spindle Cell Sarcoma of the Bone