Solange Sierra, APRNSolange Sierra, APRN, uses her personal experience to help patients with rare tumors like sarcoma.
“My journey taught me the frustration of navigating a rare diagnosis,” Sierra said. “Now, I can reassure patients that they’re in the right place for comprehensive care.”
Sierra’s pain began in her teens, but she dismissed it as a sports injury. By the time she sought medical help, an MRI was inconclusive, and she was advised to “live with the pain.” She managed it with over-the-counter painkillers, put her focus on nursing school and pushed through. After earning her nursing degrees from the University of Miami, she discovered a lump on her leg and pursued a diagnosis. This time, her medical knowledge helped her. She was diagnosed with tenosynovial giant cell tumor (TGCT) – a rare, nonmalignant tumor affecting joints and tendons, which was operable and successfully removed. “For the first time in six years, I was pain-free,” Sierra recalled.
Now, Sierra works alongside oncologist Gina D'Amato, M.D., treating patients with rare sarcomas. Sarcomas, like TGCT, are often misdiagnosed, with patients frequently dismissed as having muscle strains or minor injuries. Sierra encourages her patients to advocate for their health and keep searching for answers.
“Don’t let anyone dismiss your concerns,” she urged. Sylvester’s specialized sarcoma team is among the best in the nation, treating around 900 new patients annually. “Patients come from around the world to receive treatment at Sylvester,” Sierra said. She stressed the importance of raising awareness for rare diseases, which can lead to earlier diagnoses and better outcomes.