July is Sarcoma and Bone Cancer Awareness Month: What Every Family Should Know

Every July, we come together to recognize Sarcoma and Bone Cancer Awareness Month—a time dedicated to raising awareness, supporting patients and families, and advocating for research funding and better treatments. At Kids Cancer Fund, we stand with every child and family affected by these rare and aggressive forms of cancer. By sharing knowledge and inspiring action, we can make a real difference in the lives of young patients.

What Is Sarcoma?

Sarcoma is a type of cancer that begins in the bones or in the soft tissues, such as muscles, fat, nerves, or blood vessels. It is relatively rare, making up about 1% of all adult cancers but roughly 15% of all childhood cancers. This makes it especially important for pediatric cancer organizations to spotlight the unique challenges faced by children with sarcoma.

There are two main categories of sarcoma:

• Bone sarcomas, such as osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma

• Soft tissue sarcomas, which include rhabdomyosarcoma, synovial sarcoma, and others

  
  

Understanding Bone Cancer in Children

Bone cancer can develop in any bone but is most often found in the long bones of the arms and legs. Osteosarcoma, the most common bone cancer in children and teens, typically appears during growth spurts and often affects teenagers. Ewing sarcoma, another common form, tends to occur in the pelvis, chest wall, or long bones.

Symptoms can include:

• Persistent bone pain

• Swelling or lumps near bones or joints

• Fatigue and weight loss

• Difficulty moving a limb or limping

  
  

Because symptoms can resemble those of growing pains or sports injuries, early detection can be challenging. That's why awareness and education are crucial.

Why July Matters

Awareness months like this one help shine a light on lesser-known pediatric cancers and drive public support for research funding. Treatments for sarcoma and bone cancer often include chemotherapy, surgery, and sometimes radiation, and outcomes can vary greatly depending on early diagnosis and the type and stage of cancer.

Despite progress, pediatric sarcomas still present unique challenges:

• Treatments developed for adults are often less effective for children.

• Survivors may face long-term side effects from aggressive therapies.

• Rare cancers receive significantly less funding and research attention.

  
  

How You Can Help

At Kids Cancer Fund, we believe no child should have to fight cancer alone. Here's how you can make a difference this July:

• Spread awareness by sharing facts about sarcoma and bone cancer on social media.

• Donate to support childhood cancer research and family support programs.

• Wear yellow or gold—colors that symbolize hope and awareness for childhood cancer.

• Support families you know who may be going through treatment with meals, transportation help, or simply listening.

  
  

Stories That Inspire

We’ve seen firsthand the strength of young fighters. Like Emily, an 11-year-old diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma who endured months of chemotherapy and surgery but never gave up her dream of dancing again. Today, she’s in remission and sharing her story to inspire other kids.

Final Thoughts

Sarcoma and bone cancer may be rare, but for the families facing them, they are all too real. This July, let’s honor the children who are fighting, support the survivors, and remember those we’ve lost. Together, we can drive change—through awareness, compassion, and action.