Orthopaedic Surgeon: Benjamin Miller, MD, MS, FAAOS
Hospital: University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics
I was diagnosed with parosteal osteosarcoma in January 2019 when I was 25 years old. My local doctor had ordered an x-ray and CT after my left leg unexpectedly went numb after months of intermittent pain. The scans showed I had a tumor located on my left hip joint and I was promptly referred to University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics to see orthopedic surgery and oncology.
One of the most surprising aspects of my journey with cancer was getting the call from my orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Miller, informing me that they decided I may be a good candidate for a custom-made implant to reconstruct the areas removed by surgery. I felt like I was living in the future of health care, and I am still very thankful for the opportunity to have a chance at my best outcome. The surgery was successful and I am continuing to work with physical therapy to regain as much strength as possible. It has taken a lot of time and effort, but I have definitely come a long way and continue to make some gains in my mobility.
One of the hardest aspects of my cancer diagnosis and surgery has been letting go of some of my most loved activities such as running. It has been a huge learning and coping process for me, but also a great lesson in gratitude for what I have. I feel so thankful to currently be cancer free and I am grateful to have providers who are compassionate and truly value my quality of life. Now over one-year post surgery, I am working full time and have transitioned my role from hospital social work into oncology social work. One of the best parts of my job is being there for patients as they navigate their own journey with cancer and using my experiences to help relate when necessary.
I am so fortunate to have had a successful sarcoma story, and I give a lot of credit for that to the wonderful orthopedic care team at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.
AAOS and MSTS Care About Sarcoma Patients
The AAOS Registry Program has developed the Musculoskeletal Tumor Registry (MsTR) with support from the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS), and this July, and throughout the year, the work that occurs through the collection, analysis, and dissemination of Registry data supports the improvement of sarcoma patient care.
For more information about this Registry, visit www.aaos.org/registries/MsTR
To make a donation, visit here.