When Cheryl voiced her concerns to the doctor, she received the news she was unprepared for. Regrettably, after neglecting growth for ten years, she had to undergo a leg amputation when doctors diagnosed it as cancerous. Cheryl first noticed the growth at the age of 15 but dismissed it as non-threatening. However, over the years, it grew to the size of a golf ball.
It was her boyfriend, David, who finally convinced her to seek medical advice. After conducting several tests, doctors determined that Cheryl had sarcoma, a rare form of cancer. They informed her that the growth had progressed significantly, necessitating the amputation of her leg. Throughout the challenging journey, David stood by the 27-year-old’s side and even proposed marriage shortly before her operation.
Following the surgery, Cheryl left the hospital in a wheelchair. However, she immediately began physiotherapy and received a prosthetic limb. Despite the ordeal, Cheryl maintains a positive outlook. The courageous woman stated, “I never allow myself to wish I had gone to the doctor sooner. I have come to terms with what has happened, and I am now proud to be an amputee. I cannot change the past; I can only focus on moving forward into my future.”
It is important to note that sarcoma, a rare form of cancer, affects many individuals. The American Cancer Society estimates that 13,190 people in the United States will receive a soft tissue sarcoma diagnosis in 2022. By sharing this story, we aim to raise public awareness about sarcoma and its potential consequences.
