After rare cancer diagnosis, North Huntingdon woman shares journey to help others - TribLIVE.com

What the report says

TribLIVE reported on the cancer treatment and advocacy efforts of Jessica Tarosky, a 38-year-old North Huntingdon woman diagnosed with myxoid liposarcoma, a rare cancerous tumor that forms in soft tissue. The outlet observed one of her late-June radiation appointments at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in Shadyside, where therapists prepared her for treatment targeting a tumor in her left thigh.

According to the report, Tarosky first noticed a lump in the fall, saw it grow by a January trip to the Bahamas, and was diagnosed on May 18. She completed three weeks of radiation at UPMC Shadyside on July 7, with surgery expected to be discussed as a next step. Her care has involved a weekly tumor board, where specialists from different disciplines coordinate an individualized treatment plan.

Doctors quoted by TribLIVE said myxoid liposarcoma is uncommon and not well understood, though radiation oncologist Dr. Neal S. McCall said this type can respond visibly to radiation. The story also cited broader context from the Sarcoma Foundation of America and Cleveland Clinic: sarcomas make up a small share of adult cancers, while myxoid liposarcoma often affects people ages 30 to 50.

Tarosky has used journaling and social media to process her diagnosis and connect with others facing cancer. TribLIVE reported that Westmoreland County commissioners were expected to recognize July as Sarcoma Awareness Month, an observance Tarosky hopes will help draw attention to the disease and the need for more research.