March 2025

“Liv was 6 when we discovered a “bump” on her ribcage. It felt and looked like a bead, or a corn kernel that was stuck under her skin. After numerous appointments and tests, we went in for a surgery to remove the ” benign cyst.” Unfortunately, it was not a cyst. It was a very rare type of sarcoma that is even more rare in children. Liv then had a second surgery to “go deeper” and ensure that margins were clear. We caught the tumor very early, as it was 1cm when removed but had grown substantially since the ultrasound. Liv is now healthy but does quarterly appoints and testing to make sure that the tumor isn’t coming back. Liv is an active kid and the hardest part about her surgeries and recovery was missing soccer and daily activities! She still plays soccer, swims for our neighborhood swim team, and loves riding her bike. She is also a huge Lio Messi and NC Courage fan. We are sharing this story to advocate for early detection. All parents and guardians should check their children and pay close attention to any new bump or spot. And don’t be afraid to advocate for a second opinion or more testing!”
—Liv’s mother, Paloma

Liv is excited to be racing in our Chapel Hill triathlon!