Fact: Not always. Some of the most important clues come from symptoms, changes, or concerns you bring up on your own and not just from the questions you answer. 

Remember: You are the other expert in the doctor's office. No one knows your body better than you do. Sharing what you have noticed, even if it seems small or unrelated, could be the key to the right diagnosis.

John Link, Survivor

July is Sarcoma Cancer Awareness Month. Sarcoma is a rare cancer that begins in the body's connective tissues, including muscles, fat, bones, tendons, blood vessels, or cartilage.

Because sarcomas can develop almost anywhere in the body, it's important to pay attention to changes that persist or worsen over time. A new or enlarging lump, especially one that is larger than a golf ball or deep beneath the skin, or persistent bone pain that doesn't improve deserves medical attention. Knowing what's normal for your body, recognizing when something has changed, and seeking timely medical care are practical skills anyone can learn. That's exactly what 3 Steps Detect® is designed to help people do. 

“Getting the right diagnosis (osteosarcoma) was the critical first step, and I played a part in my survival." —John Link

Lilia Young, DetecTogether Charity Athlete

2026 ASICS Falmouth Road Race — As a nursing student and the daughter of a cancer survivor, Lilia has seen how recognizing cancer early can change a family's future. She's running to help more people gain the skills and confidence to recognize changes in their health that need evaluation and take action sooner.

Support Lilia and our team of charity athletes as they help bring these early detection skills to more people and families.

"Speaking up right away about what I was experiencing led to timely testing and follow-up care, helping me get answers sooner." 

Jonathan battled leukemia three times. He shares the lesson that helped him get answers sooner and could help someone do the same. 

For more inspiring stories, click on the collage below:

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