Marisa’s Stage 4 Synovial Sarcoma Story

Marisa shares her experience living with stage 4 synovial sarcoma. Diagnosed initially with stage 3 in 2017, Marisa’s symptoms began in high school when she noticed a small bump on her foot. Despite consultations with podiatrists over the years, the bump was misdiagnosed as a benign cyst until after its removal in 2017. By that time, the lump had grown significantly during her pregnancy. The devastating cancer diagnosis came when her daughter was six weeks old, marking a life-changing moment.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Katrina Villareal

Marisa’s treatment included chemotherapy, a below-knee amputation in 2017, and multiple surgeries for lung metastases, starting in 2020. She underwent four pulmonary wedge resections, a segmentectomy, and later, radiation therapy to target residual cancer. Unfortunately, the cancer became more aggressive, spreading to her bones and lungs by early 2023. Despite numerous treatments, including 27 lung radiation sessions and systemic chemotherapy, Marisa remains optimistic and continues to monitor her health closely.

Mentally and emotionally, the impact of cancer has been profound. Marisa finds it challenging to balance parenting, work, and being a stage 4 cancer patient. She’s candid about the toll it takes on her and her family, especially explaining her illness to her young daughter. However, Marisa has chosen to focus on small joys—mundane daily tasks and moments with loved ones that now hold deeper meaning.

Marisa emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy in health care, urging others to trust their instincts and pursue answers when something feels wrong. She shares her story to provide hope to others battling sarcoma or cancer. She aims to raise awareness about the disease and inspire others with her determination to live fully, even while managing ongoing health challenges. Her message is clear: life with stage 4 cancer is not the end—it’s an opportunity to cherish each moment and look forward to advancements in medical science.

Name: Marisa C.
Age at Diagnosis:
- 24
Diagnosis:
- Synovial Sarcoma
Staging:
- stage 3 (2017)
- Stage 4 (2021)
Symptom:
- A small bump on the foot (stable for years, then grew during pregnancy), pain when pressed, difficulty wearing closed shoes
Treatments:
- Surgeries: below-knee amputation, pulmonary wedge resections, and segmentectomy
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation: lungs and hip