Welcome to UPSarcoma
sarcoma is a rare type of cancer
Hi, my name is Sandy Briden and I have undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS).
Sarcoma is a rare and often misdiagnosed type of cancer and it is important to raise awareness.
I have compiled a video with three main aims:
- To help friends and family understand sarcoma and where to go for information and support.
- To help people newly diagnosed with sarcoma.
- To encourage people to get unusual and persistent lumps, bumps and swellings checked out by a doctor.
Sadly, Deena, an advocate for the early detection of sarcoma who features in this video, has passed away. It is important the video continues to raise sarcoma awareness in her honour.
Resources & charities
Trusted organisations Sandy gathered together for those newly diagnosed, their families and supporters.
The Royal Marsden Hospital
A world-leading cancer hospital with a specialised sarcoma research unit.
Sarcoma UK
A charity that provides support, information and promotes awareness for sarcoma.
The Grove Hotel
A non-profit hotel for terminally ill cancer sufferers, in Bournemouth.
Dignity in Dying
Assisted dying should be a legal choice for terminally ill patients.
From Sandy's voice
previously @ChemistryTweetSandy's original Twitter account was hacked and taken over. These are a few of her words preserved from press coverage, the original site, and her Dignity in Dying feature.
"Assisted Dying is about living now."
Sarcoma is a rare cancer — only 1% of adult cancers. Please get unusual lumps, bumps and swellings checked.
For me assisted dying isn't about dying, it's about living.
Press, interviews & remembrance
Where Sandy appeared, was written about, or is still remembered. If you know of a piece that should be linked here, please let the family know.
- Channel 4 NewsThe terminally-ill woman fighting for the right to dieInterview with Jackie Long, Social Affairs Editor (July 2017).
- Channel 4 News (Twitter)“Assisted Dying is about living now.”Clip from Sandy's interview, shared 18 July 2017.
- Dignity in DyingSandy Briden — feature & campaign filmSandy's own written story and short campaign film, kept online in her memory.
- Dignity in Dying — YouTube“My care has been fantastic, but I still want choice”Seven short videos filmed with Dignity in Dying.
- Health Story Hub — University of IowaSandy Briden: Dignity in DyingSandy's story archived as part of a health-narratives collection.
- The Royal Marsden Cancer CharitySandy Briden's Sarcoma Awareness PageSandy's JustGiving fundraiser for the Royal Marsden Sarcoma Research Unit.