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Every July, we recognize Sarcoma & Bone Cancer Awareness Month, a time to increase understanding, support those affected, and elevate research for these rare and often overlooked cancers.What is Sarcoma?Sarcoma is a rare type of cancerous tumor that begins in the body's connective tissues (bones, muscles, fat, cartilage, nerves, tendons, and blood vessels). It can occur anywhere in the body and affects both children and adults but is most often formed in the legs, chest/abdomen, arms, or head and neck.Sarcomas are divided into two main categories:Soft Tissue Sarcomas: begin in muscles, fats, nerves, or tendons (angiosarcoma, desmoplastic small round cell tumors, etc.)Bone Sarcomas: begin in the bone itself (osteosarcoma, Ewing sarcomas, etc.)Together, these cancers make up less than 1% of all adult cancers but are more common in children and young adults.How Sarcoma Differs from Other CancersMost cancers are classified as carcinomas, which typically begin in major organs like the lungs, breast, or colon. These cancers often spread through the lymphatic system or bloodstream to other parts of the body.Sarcomas, however, behave differently. They usually begin in connective tissues, like bones, muscles, or fat, and rarely originate in the organs. Instead of spreading through lymph nodes, sarcomas are more likely to travel through the bloodstream, often reaching the lungs, liver, or in rare cases, the brain. This distinction is important in understanding how sarcoma progresses and how it's treated.Common Signs and SymptomsWhile symptoms vary based on type and location, here are a few to be aware of:A lump or swelling (often painless at first)Pain in a bone or soft tissue that doesn't go awayLimited range of motion or joint functionNumbness or tinglingUnexplained fractures/pathological fracturesIf any of these symptoms persist for you or a loved one, especially in combination, it's important to consult a healthcare provider.Why Awareness MattersBecause sarcomas are rare and often present with vague symptoms like swelling or pain, they can be misdiagnosed or overlooked. Early detection is critical, yet many patients face delays in diagnosis. Increased awareness can lead to earlier detection, better outcomes, and more attention to research funding.Support for Patients and FamiliesA sarcoma diagnosis can feel isolating, but you are not alone. Throughout Sarcoma & Bone Cancer Awareness Month, we honor those impacted and provide resources to help:Sarcoma Foundation of America: offers advocacy, education, and patient supportBone Cancer Research Trust: a central hub for patients and families navigating bone cancerAmerican Cancer Society Sarcoma and Bone Cancer: provides clinical information, care support, and survivor resourcesSarcoma and bone cancers may be rare, but the strength of the community is powerful. This month, and every month, we support patients, survivors, caregivers, and advocates to raise awareness and push for progress.

Eddie's inspiring journey through cancer treatment is a powerful reminder of resilience, determination, and hope. While battling cancer, Eddie continued to work, attend nursing school, and be there for the people who mattered most—his family.

From the moment you receive a cancer diagnosis, you become a survivor, and your journey continues well beyond the end of cancer treatment. Life often looks different, and survivorship can bring a range of physical, emotional, and mental changes. Survivorship care is the next phase of your treatment plan, designed to help you adjust to a new normal, support your ongoing recovery, and embrace life beyond cancer.As you move forward, asking the right questions can help you feel supported, informed, and reassured. Whether you receive survivorship care with us or with your primary care provider, we're always here for you.Key Questions to Ask Your Care TeamCompleting cancer treatment is a major milestone, but it often also marks the beginning of new physical, emotional, and practical challenges and adjustments. To help you navigate this transition with confidence, here are important questions to talk about with your doctors and care team:What is survivorship care?Survivorship care includes the medical and emotional support you receive after your primary cancer treatment ends. It focuses on:Monitoring for recurrenceManaging long-term or late side effectsSupporting mental and emotional well-beingEncouraging healthy lifestyle choicesYour oncology team may even offer specialized survivorship care programs tailored to meet your unique needs. Ask your care team what their program includes and if it's the right fit for you.When will I transition to survivorship care?The transition to survivorship care usually begins once your initial treatment—such as chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery—is complete. This timing can vary depending on your type of cancer and treatment, but your oncology team will guide you through this process and help you coordinate your ongoing care.What kind of follow-up care do I need, how often, and what will it look like moving forward?Understanding your follow-up plan is essential. This may involve regular scans, lab tests, or check-ins with your oncologist and primary care provider.What symptoms or changes should I watch out for?Knowing what signs could indicate a recurrence or complications allows you to seek timely care if needed.How can I manage these side effects or symptoms?Ask about medications, rehabilitation, or therapies that may help relieve fatigue, neuropathy, or other common post-treatment effects that affect your quality of life.What lifestyle changes can support my health moving forward?Nutrition, exercise, stress management, and other habits can play a key role in your recovery and wellness.What mental health or emotional support is available?Support groups, individual counseling, and community resources can help you process your experience and connect with others. The American Cancer Society and the Cancer Survivors Network are great starting points.Creating Your Survivorship Care PlanAs you begin this next chapter, your care team may provide a personalized survivorship care plan. This plan summarizes:Your diagnosis, treatment history, and familial cancer risk assessmentRecommended follow-up carePossible side effectsHealth and wellness recommendationsCancer surveillance and other recommended related testsThis valuable roadmap is designed for both you and any healthcare provider you work with moving forward to make your transition feel clear and supported.We're honored to mark this meaningful milestone with you.Your Role in SurvivorshipLife after cancer is a shared journey. Staying engaged in your care, asking questions, and working closely with your care team can help you feel confident and connected as you navigate life beyond cancer.

Cancer touches nearly every life, whether through a personal diagnosis or through the impact on family, friends, or colleagues. It remains one of the world's most pressing health challenges as the World Health Organization reports, cancer was responsible for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020—accounting for roughly one in every six deaths. While we will always honor and remember those we've lost to cancer, we also recognize and celebrate the more than 18 million cancer survivors living in the United States today.National Cancer Survivors Month, first recognized in 1988, shines a light on the unique challenges survivors face after treatment while celebrating life beyond a cancer diagnosis. Throughout the month, advocates across the country host educational events, awareness campaigns, and community gatherings to support survivors and their families, promote understanding, and highlight the importance of ongoing care.Recognizing the Unique Needs of SurvivorsAs early detection methods, treatments, and research continue to advance, more people are surviving cancer than ever before. However, survivorship doesn't end when treatment does; it begins at the moment of diagnosis and continues throughout a person's life.National Cancer Survivors Month reminds us that supporting those who have experienced cancer means understanding and addressing their evolving needs, long after the last appointment. For many, the end of treatment marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with hope, adjustments, and uncertainty, which can include:Long-term side effects like fatigue, nerve damage, or changes in mobility.Mental, emotional, and spiritual health challenges, including anxiety about recurrence, body image concerns, and the impact cancer may have had on relationships, identity, or daily life.Long-term health maintenance, including nutrition, exercise, preventative care, and healthy habits to support overall well-being after treatment.Practical concerns like returning to work, navigating insurance or medical bills, and finding ongoing support.Recognizing these realities helps understand that "surviving" cancer is much more than being cancer free—it's about finding a new normal and thriving beyond the diagnosis.National Resources for Survivors: From Diagnosis Through End of TreatmentWhile each cancer diagnosis and treatment path are unique, many survivors and their families face similar feelings of uncertainty, fatigue, and overwhelm during recovery. Reliable support can make a meaningful difference. Here are some key resources:American Cancer Society 24/7 Helpline (1-800-227-2345): connects callers with trained specialists for cancer diagnosis questions, guidance, or to offer a listening ear.The American Cancer Society: provides access to online support groups, transportation and lodging programs, and many additional resources to ease the burden of treatment and recovery.The Cancer Survivors Network: creates peer connections for survivors, caregivers, and families who may be experiencing similar journeys.The National Cancer Institute Division of Cancer Control & Population Sciences: offers educational videos, wellness guides, follow-up care tips, and survivorship planning support.Supporting Survivors: How Caregivers, Family, and Friends Can HelpThough the cancer diagnosis is personal, the journey of healing and adjustment involves everyone around the survivor. Emotional support, practical help, and simply being there make a meaningful difference beyond treatment. Helping survivors rebuild their lives physically, emotionally, and socially is vital to recovery. Here are some of the most important ways to support survivors moving forward:Listen without judgement: often, the most powerful support is simply being present and allowing survivors to share their stories in their own time.Practical help: everyday tasks like errands, cooking, or childcare can feel overwhelming after diagnosis or treatment. Offering specific help, rather than saying "let me know if you need anything" often goes a long way.Educate yourself: learning about survivorship and long-term effects of cancer can create a better understanding of what a loved one might be going through.Join or support a cause: volunteer, donate, or participate in events that raise awareness and funds for survivorship programs, research or patient advocacy.Stay in touch, be there, and celebrate milestones: after the initial diagnosis or treatment period, support can fade as life continues. Survivorship is lifelong and presence matters. Acknowledge anniversaries, treatment updates, or moments of strength reinforce resilience and hope, even months or years later.By recognizing and lending a hand to these needs, we can create a culture that supports healing, not just surviving.We Support National Cancer Survivors MonthCancer survivorship is a deeply personal experience. While every journey differs, the core truth remains: a survivor's life is forever changed after diagnosis, treatment, and living through cancer.As we observe National Cancer Survivors Month, consider how you can offer support—whether through a kind conversation, volunteering your time, or spreading awareness. Together, we can help survivors not only survive but truly thrive.

Terry talks about his cancer diagnosis and his faith. Hope Elevated!

The cancer journey is undeniably challenging. At The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, our breast health specialists are dedicated to delivering the highest level of care for breast cancer and breast disease. With a patient-centered approach, we strive to provide the best opportunity for a cure and the highest quality of life.Our specialists foster confidence-building, woman-to-woman relationships, creating a reassuring and comforting environment. Each patient's unique situation is carefully considered, and all surgical and treatment options are thoroughly discussed.We collaborate closely with medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, nurses, dieticians, patient navigators, and support staff to develop customized treatment plans tailored to individual needs. As the premier community cancer center in the region, we ensure integrated access to the full continuum of care.From cutting-edge treatments to comprehensive emotional and spiritual support, we address every aspect of a patient's journey. At The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders, we treat every patient as a cherished family member. We are committed to staying at the forefront of cancer care, continually striving to provide the finest services to patients and their families.Cancer Won't Wait, Hope Is Here at The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders.

The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders proudly announces that Dr. Parra has been honored as one of the Top 150 Physicians in the Nation for Prostate Cancer!This recognition highlights his dedication, expertise, and the compassionate care he provides to every patient.View the Newsweek Rankings

The Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders is committed to continuously improving the patient experience through enhanced care services and facilities. 

Congratulations to Dr. Weng, the entire radiation oncology department, and our Las Colinas office for successfully treating their first thyroid cancer patient with I-131 radioactive iodine!Dr. Weng and the radiation oncology team built the program from the ground up. It allows us to provide an important treatment option for our patients after resection of their thyroid cancer.I-131 therapy is a form of nuclear medicine used to treat hyperthyroidism and certain types of thyroid cancer. When a radioactive iodine pill is swallowed, the I-131 is absorbed into the bloodstream and localized to the thyroid, any remaining normal thyroid tissue after surgery, or thyroid cancer. I-131 is able to ablate the thyroid in the setting of an overactive thyroid disease. Furthermore, where indicated, it has been shown to decrease the rate of thyroid cancer recurrence.Thank you to all of our Center family for your continued hard work and dedication to our patients!

Our medical oncology team in Ft Worth was the first in Tarrant County to treat a patient with BITE therapy for aggressive lymphoma—representing one of the newest treatment options for patients with advanced lymphoma.