Soft tissue sarcoma on my dog's leg and insurance woes

[Anonymous]

My 10 year old pomeranian has a soft tissue sarcoma on her right front elbow. Other than that, she is completely healthy and perky. She will need to have surgery to remove it, most likely followed by radiation (thousand of $s) or amputation. I am struggling with what is the best thing to do for her, that will address the cancer, but cause the least harm/suffering for her. To add to my woes, my pet insurance company, Embrace, is trying to claim that because she had a pre-existing tiny growth, probably a wart, but not big enough to be tested, it is considered a "mass" so all "masses" on the skin or anywhere, are not covered. My vet is going to bat for me with the insurance company, and I am waiting to hear back on my appeal. It is just frustrating and upsetting all the way around so I am hoping to hear from people who may have had similar experiences.
Thanks!

[Anonymous]

If an amputation allows you to avoid radiation treatment, I'd go that route. A small dog like a pom will get on fine with 3 legs. Amputation will also be less expensive.