Patient Stories
Each year, thousands of patients look to the University of Chicago Medicine and Comer Children's Hospital for care. Below are just a few of their stories of healing and hope. We're proud to share these successes with you.
- Cancer
- Gastroenterology & Hepatology
- Heart Disease
- Neurosurgery
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Pediatric Cancer
- Pediatric General Surgery
- Pediatric Neurosurgery
- Pediatric Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
- Pediatric Rheumatology
- Pediatric Sleep Medicine
- Pediatric Urology
- Pelvic Floor Disorders
- Personalized Health & Prevention
- Stem Cell Transplant
- Transplant Surgery
- Weight Loss Surgery
Cancer
Brain Tumor
Awake Craniotomy: Confronting Brain Surgery with Open Eyes
Initially, Anna Litchfield wasn't sure she could handle an awake craniotomy -- a complex procedures typically used to remove tumors nestled close to functional areas of the brain. Because the patient is awake during the procedure, a neurologist can continuously monitor language, motor and sensory function to make sure critical parts of the brain suffer minimal damage. However, Anna overcame her fear, and decided to have the procedure. As a result, the surgical team believes she avoided critical damage that she may have experienced during a traditional procedure.
Drug Made from Scorpion Venom Keeps Patient’s Brain Tumor in Check
A drug derived from scorpion venom appears to be helping a 49-year old Tinley Park woman beat the odds. Diagnosed in December 2005, with a deadly glioblastoma multiforme, Donna Van Ryn has lived almost three times the median survival of 15 months--and feels fine.
Breast Cancer
Former High School Principal Finds Correct Treatment for Metastatic Breast Cancer
In the world of breast cancer survival, Shirley Mertz has come a long way by battling for 17 years. University of Chicago oncologists tailored Mertz's treatment according to the biology of the tumor--an approach that reversed the course of her cancer. "I know that I would not be here today if it were not for the skill and expertise of Olufunmilayo Olopade, MD, and the other specialists and nurses at the University of Chicago medical center," says Mertz.
Heidi's Story: Cancer Risk Clinic Eases Fears
A cancer prevention plan helped ease Heidi's fears about breast cancer risk.
Colon Cancer
Woman Chooses Laparoscopic Surgery for Effective Colon Cancer Treatment
Using his own hand-drawn illustrations, Konstantin Umanskiy, MD, helped Mary Shedd understand why minimally invasive surgery was the best treatment option to help her beat colon cancer. Umanskiy performed a laparoscopic lower anterior bowel resection--an alternative to open abdominal surgery--to remove the cancerous tissue from Shedd's colon. Following the procedure, she experienced no complications, a quick recovery, and minimal scarring.
Gastrointestinal Cancer
Against All Odds
For Pam Duda, the highlight of her treatment for pancreatic cancer was talking with fellow patients while she waited for chemotherapy treatments. Duda was eager to learn everything she could about her cancer and treatment options. Throughout her treatment, the care team explained every step to her. "I had a real understanding of what was happening to me," Duda said.
Fighting Pancreatic Cancer with Spirit
Pancreatic cancer is a very challenging disease. Diana Sokol-Roth turned to the University of Chicago Medicine for treatment, where physicians are constantly involved in leading-edge research. Diana met with Hedy Kindler, MD, who answered every question she had, and after that meeting, Diana knew she had “found somebody that was going to get us through the next chapter.”
Esophageal Patient is Given a New Hunger for Life
Bill McQuillan spent nearly a year avoiding food. He was successfully treated at the University of Chicago for esophageal achalasia, and can now eat normally.
Man Avoids Losing Esophagus to Cancer
When Tom Flint's Barrett's esophagus condition deteriorated into cancer, doctors at another hospital told him he had only one option--removal of the esophagus. Before considering such life-altering surgery, Tom turned to University of Chicago experts who used advanced minimally invasive techniques to treat the cancer and spare his esophagus.
Expert Treatment for a Unique Type of Tumor
When John Hunt was diagnosed with gastrointestinal stromal tumor, he did a lot of research to find the right specialist. "When my wife and I met Dr. Posner, we both liked him," Hunt said. "It was clear to us that he was a very skilled physician and an excellent communicator. He helped us understand what the game plan was and helped us gain confidence." After a successful surgery to remove two tumors, Hunt is enjoying a new career and life with his family in a new city.
Second Opinion Brings Michigan Woman to Expert Surgeon
After having gallbladder surgery, doctors in Michigan suspected that Georgann likely had pancreatic cancer. A second opinion at the University of Chicago Center for Gastrointestinal Oncology confirmed the diagnosis that led to a successful Whipple surgery. More than five years after the surgery, Georgann is keeping healthy with regular exercise.
Good Health, Great Surgeons Give Pancreatic Cancer Patient a Second Chance
After having the Whipple procedure to treat pancreatic cancer, 81-year-old Norma Langellier is back to her active lifestyle that includes daily walks. Though many doctors may consider people like Norma to be too old for the Whipple procedure, our experienced surgeons have found that they can safely and effectively perform this life-saving surgery on reasonably healthy people, regardless of age.
Surgical Technique Helps Woman Avoid Colostomy
When Lena Knezevich was diagnosed with anal cancer, she knew she wanted to come to the University of Chicago for treatment. Doctors were able to shrink and remove the mass from Lena's lower anal canal, leaving her sphincter muscles intact -- sparing the need for a colostomy.
Gynecologic Cancer
From the Oncology Ward to the Maternity Ward
At age 19, Jennifer Bishop was diagnosed with a rare form of ovarian cancer. She underwent treatment that included removal of an ovary and the tumor inside it, as well as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Several years after surviving cancer, Bishop gave birth to her first child.
Head & Neck Cancer
Combination Therapy Saves Chef's Tongue from Cancer
When famed Chicago chef Grant Achatz was diagnosed with tongue cancer, several doctors told him that his only treatment option was the removal of most of his tongue. Faced with a career-threatening decision, Achatz sought help from University of Chicago cancer specialists who developed a combination therapy plan that spared Achatz’s tongue from surgery and put the cancer in remission.
Kidney Cancer
Robotics Aid Surgeons in Operating Room
Using advanced robotic technology, surgeons removed a cancer-bearing kidney through tiny incisions.
Leukemia
Three Generations, One Gene Mutation, No Cancer
Mica Witt and her daughter, Shannon Wilson, were both successfully treated at the University of Chicago Medicine for a rare genetic form of cancer. Shannon's daughter, Kelsey, has not been diagnosed, but she shares the genetic mutation that could lead to leukemia.
Lung Cancer
Active as Ever--a Decade After Lung Cancer Surgery
Watch Jeanie Dallas exercise and you'd never suspect that she faced and conquered lung cancer more than 10 years ago. Her only reminder of cancer is a small scar from surgery and annual visits to the University of Chicago Medicine Center to monitor her for cancer recurrence.
History of Personalized Medicine Brings Future Hope to Lung Cancer Patients
The cause of Victor's lung cancer was a mystery to him--until experts at the University of Chicago traced it to a specific gene mutation. After enrolling in a clinical trial for genetically based drug therapy, Victor's tumor has shrunk and shows no signs of growth.
Minimally Invasive Surgery a 'Lucky' Option for Woman's Early-Stage Lung Cancer
In an ironic way, Barbara Arvia is grateful for the bunion on her foot. Preparation for foot surgery led to a surprising diagnosis of lung cancer--and to state-of-the-art treatment with video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS). Barbara's surgery was performed through three small incisions, which resulted in a shorter recovery and a faster return to her busy lifestyle.
Man with Lung Cancer Rides to Clear Recovery
Surgery for carcinoid tumor of the lung hasn't prevented John Williams from taking 15-mile bike rides along Lake Michigan's shoreline.
Gastroenterology & Hepatology
Minimally Invasive Technique Leads to a Dramatic Result for Pancreatic Patient
Joseph Mangano experienced painful bouts of pancreatitis and had trouble finding a physician who could fix his blocked pancreatic duct. He turned to Dr. Waxman who performed an advanced non-surgical treatment known as endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) guided transluminal therapy to fix the blockage.
IBD Patient Stays Healthy With Great Care
Judging by his life today, nobody would guess that Seth Kinnett's teen years were dominated by inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which caused debilitating pain. Kinnett credits Dr. Rubin's decision to switch to newer, more advanced medications with keeping his condition in remission for nearly two years.
Woman Seeks Second Opinion for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Treatment
For years, Theresa Daddono experienced chronic pain caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Learn how Dr. Marco Patti used a minimally invasive surgical procedure to relieve her symptoms.
University of Chicago Surgeon Provides Relief for Iowa Teen with Rare Swallowing Disorder
For nearly one and a half years, Nick Metcalf struggled with a swallowing disorder called achalasia. After having laparoscopic myotomy and a partial fundoplication surgery at the University of Chicago, Metcalf is back enjoying life as a normal, healthy teenager.
Heart Disease
Heart Failure
Team Aproach to Heart Failure Care Restores Quality of Life
Daniel Kusek has faced several heart problems and has undergone surgery, medical therapy, catheter ablation and pacemaker/ICD insertion to keep his heart disease in check. At each turn, the coordinated care provided by his University of Chicago Medicine physician team enabled Kusek to get back to enjoying life with family and friends.
Music Teacher Is Back On Beat After Heart Surgery
A left ventricular assist device (LVAD) helped Ron Lekavich return to teaching music after suffering from extreme weakness and shortness of breath due to heart failure. "If I didn't receive the heart pump, they would have given me six months to a year to live," Lekavich said. The University of Chicago Medicine implants LVADs as a bridge to heart transplant or as an alternative to transplant.
Heart Rhythm Disorders
Minimally Invasive Atrial Fibrillation Surgery: Lynda's Story
An avid runner, Lynda Spiegel was hiking in Italy when she noticed her heart racing out of control. After speaking with Valluvan Jeevanandam, MD, Lynda travelled to the University of Chicago Medial center from New York because our heart surgeons can offer the most advanced minimally invasive techniques. Following the procedure, Lynda enjoys running and feeling like herself again.
Modified Maze Procedure Helps Patient
For Frank Fleischer, medication and radiofrequency catheter ablation provided only temporary relief from the racing heartbeats of atrial fibrillation. He turned to cardiac surgeon Shahab Akhter, MD, for an alternative solution. Akhter performed a minimally invasive modified Maze procedure through one small incision to restore normal heart rhythm.
Neurosurgery
New Target Provides Better Tremor Control
Betty Bertram had the same surgery twice in one decade. While both were successful, the outcomes show how far medicine can progress in a short time.
Awake Craniotomy: Confronting Brain Surgery with Open Eyes
Initially, Anna Litchfield wasn't sure she could handle an awake craniotomy -- a complex procedures typically used to remove tumors nestled close to functional areas of the brain. Because the patient is awake during the procedure, a neurologist can continuously monitor language, motor and sensory function to make sure critical parts of the brain suffer minimal damage. However, Anna overcame her fear, and decided to have the procedure. As a result, the surgical team believes she avoided critical damage that she may have experienced during a traditional procedure.
Brain Surgery Eliminates Cause of Seizures
Steven Steinhilber, 23, opened a can of soda and as the first notes of carbonation fizzed into the air, he turned to his wife, Genay, and said, "I don't feel well," right before passing out.
Managing Complexity: Multiple Cerebral Aneurysms Treated in a Single Operation
Carol Kruse was back to her regular daily activities only days after having surgery on five aneurysms. “Dr. Awad and his team really made us feel confident that the surgery was going to go well,” her daughter, Katherine Nigro, said.
To the Edge and Back: Defying a Deadly Condition
At 43, Eileen Wilhelm developed two cerebral aneurysms, and one of them ruptured, nearly killing her. Fast action and the expertise of the University of Chicago Medicine surgical team saved her life.
Complex Surgery to Remove Tumor Restores Vision
Diane Maciorowski was shocked when an MRI scan revealed a tangerine-sized tumor at the base of her brain. Located in a nearly inaccessible region abutting crucial nerves and blood vessels, the skilled and experienced team lead by Dr. Awad removed the growth with minimal side effects.
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Two Beautiful Daughters Come From Difficult Twin Pregnancy
It was clear from the start that Marjorie Bansfield's twin pregnancy would be difficult. She was 45 and her twins shared the same amniotic sac -- a rare "mono-mono" pregnancy that carries a very high risk for complications. "
Transabdominal Cerclage for Incompetent Cervix
Procedure Helps Family Find Happiness After History of Loss
On the path to parenthood, Michele Arick suffered multiple losses: five miscarriages, two ectopic pregnancies, and the loss of a son, Matthew, during the 21st week of pregnancy. She also struggled with infertility issues. After being diagnosed with cervical insufficiency -- and nearly losing another child after a failed transvaginal cerclage (TVC) treatment -- Arick traveled from Iowa to Chicago to have a transabdominal cerclage (TAC) treatment performed by Arthur Haney, MD. After having the TAC at the University of Chicago Medicine, Arick had two healthy baby girls.
Hope--and Two Daughters--After Successful Treatment
Maryann Gates now has two beautiful, healthy daughters. But a few years ago, she was mourning the loss of twins 19 1/2 weeks into her pregnancy. Gates experienced the pregnancy loss due to an incompetent cervix. After having a transbdominal cerclage procedure performed at the University of Chicago, Gates carried two pregnancies to term. Today, this Bolingbrook, Ill., resident enjoys being a mom to Katrina and Isabella.
Memphis Family Recovers from Tragedy to Welcome Baby Girl into the World
Five years after delivering a baby girl, Mandy Polatty was diagnosed with an incompetent cervix at 19 weeks into her second pregnancy. Yet just a week after having a transvaginal cerclage treatment for her condition, Mandy delivered a stillborn boy. Mandy and her husband researched their options online and found Arthur Haney, MD, a well-known expert in transabdominal cerclage, a treatment for incompetent cervix that has a higher success rate than transvaginal cerclage. After having a prepregnancy transabdominal cerclage treatment at the University of Chicago Medicine, Mandy delivered a healthy girl.
Pelvic Floor Disorders
Urinary Incontinence: Not Just a Normal Part of Women’s Aging
For Penelope Kausal, what began as "a tiny bit of leakage" in her early 30s evolved into a more serious case of urinary incontinence as she grew older. For many years, Kausal, now 68, assumed the incontinence was just a normal part of aging. The mother of five turned to University of Chicago urologist Gregory Bales, MD, who surgically restored her bladder to its proper position by supporting it with a suburethral sling.
Women Find Help for Little Discussed Problem
Both Laura O'Brien and Silvia Wright experienced pelvic organ prolapse, a condition that occurs when the connective tissue holding organs in place gradually weakens, causing organs to fall. Both O'Brien and Wright sought help from Sandra Culbertson, MD, who performed surgeries to repair the problem.
Personalized Health & Prevention
A 'Type A' Personality Drives Himself to Better Health
The Program for Personalized Health & Prevention helped Frank Feraco identify the changes he could make to achieve better health and fitness -- and to control his blood pressure and cholesterol levels. A detailed action plan and frequent communication with his PHP physician helps keep him on track.
Empowering Patients with Personalized Medicine
Learn more about our individualized, interdisciplinary approach to preventive care and how we can help you improve your health. For example, we helped Keith Perryea lower his risk for heart attack and stroke by learning to manage health problems that had not previously been detected.
Stem Cell Transplant
Innovations in Stem Cell Transplant Allow Parent to Become Donor
Cameron Dykstra was born without an immune system and was diagnosed with severe combined immunodeficiency syndrome (SCID), a condition commonly known as "bubble boy disease." His father’s donated blood stem cells -- purified using a novel technique -- were transplanted to Cameron where they took over the task of defending the infant’s body against harmful bacteria and viruses.
Transplant Surgery
Heart Transplant Reunion: A Time to Celebrate a Second Chance at Life
Two years after Larry Matthews had a heart transplant, he realized his dream of becoming a firefighter. Matthews, as well as many other transplant recipients, their families, transplant physicians and staff celebrated the gift of organ donation at the annual heart transplant reunion. Also in attendance were people awaiting transplant surgery.
Heart Transplant Recipient Gives Back to Those That Saved His Life
Following a massive heart attack, Michigan construction worker Larry Bybee received a heart transplant on his 50th birthday. In 2009, he served as grand marshal for the University of Chicago Medicine's team at the downtown Chicago American Heart Association Heart Walk.
Heart & Kidney
Heart and Kidney Transplant: Kenneth's Story
After being turned down for transplant by six different hospitals, Kenneth Woodka looked to the University of Chicago Medicine for help. Soon after he arrived, Kenneth had a successful heart-kidney transplant.
Heart-Kidney-Liver
Michael: Triple Transplant Recipient Is Going Strong Years After Surgery
Years after receiving a rare heart-kidney-liver transplant, Michael Gaynor is active and feels more energetic than he did at half his age. Here he shares his experiences and his commitment to helping people cope with life before and after transplant.
Triple Transplant Surgery Gives Man a New Shot at Life
Darryl Williams is the 10th person in the United States--and the fourth at the University of Chicago--to have a successful heart, liver and kidney transplant.
Islet Cell
Woman Breaks Free from Insulin--and Constant Fear
Susan Cuthbert came to Chicago from England to participate in a clinical trial for type 1 diabetes. After undergoing a unique, non-surgical procedure, she no longer needs insulin or experiences hypoglycemic unawareness episodes.
Kidney
Two-Time Kidney Transplant Recipient Goes for Gold in Sports, Life
For Mike Henderson, being a two-time kidney transplant recipient, has affected his physical health, career choice and leisure time in what Henderson calls his "wonderful journey."
Retired Teacher Still Winning Medals at Transplant Games
After her living-donor kidney transplant in 1991, Nancy Mackrola began competing in the Transplant Games, an Olympic-style event for athletes who have received life-saving organ transplants. Since then, Mackrola has competed nationally and internationally, winning more than a dozen medals, and even setting a world record.
Carmen's Pre-Transplant Experience
Carmen is a recipient of a deceased donor kidney. This is her account of what she went through while waiting for her transplant.
Mark: A Living Organ Recipient's Account of the Pre-Transplant Experience
Mark kept a journal from the time he learned he had kidney failure until the time his transplant surgery was scheduled. Mark's brother, Jeff, donated a kidney to him.
Kidney Donation
Jeff: A Living Donor's Experience
Jeff describes what he went through when donating a kidney to his brother, Mark.
Kidney & Liver
Virginia's Kidney and Liver Transplant Experience
Virginia suffered kidney and liver failure as a result of polycystic kidney disease. This genetic disease causes numerous cysts to grown in the kidney. Other organs, including the liver, can also be affected.
Kidney & Pancreas
Debbie's Post-Transplant Experience
Debbie has received two kidney transplants and three pancreas transplants. Here she shares her post-transplant experiences.
Sam's Transplant Surgery Experience
Sam, a kidney-pancreas recipient, shares his surgery and hospital experience.
Liver
A Medical First, 20 Years Later
In 1989, Alyssa Smith received a portion of her mother's liver in the world's first successful living-donor liver transplant. Catch up with Alyssa and her mother and donor, Teri Smith, as well as members of the surgical team that performed this groundbreaking procedure. Learn about how plans to perform this life-saving procedure were set in motion, and how this experience changed the Smith family, the University of Chicago Medicine, and transplant science.
Family Travels More Thank 7,000 Miles for Father-to-Son Liver Transplant
Two-year-old Humaid Alsayegh needed a liver transplant to overcome cholestatic liver disease, a condition that blocked the flow of bile in his liver and stunted his growth. His father, Omran, was a good match for donation, but only after he shed 100 lbs. In a few short months, Omran reached his weight-loss goal and the family traveled to Chicago from the United Arab Emirates for the life-saving procedure.
Patricia's Post-Transplant Experience
Patricia waited 3 ½ years for a deceased donor liver after being diagnosed with advanced autoimmune hepatitis. Patricia shares some of what she went through during the post-transplant period.
Woman Donates Part of Her Liver to Co-Worker's Daughter
Catherine Ortiz donated part of her liver to Raquel Allen, the 11-month-old daughter of a co-worker. Baby Raquel's surgery went well, and she celebrated her first birthday at Comer Children's Hospital. The University of Chicago Medicine's blog, Science Life, followed Raquel's journey before, during and after transplant in a three-part series.
William's Pre-Transplant Experience
William is a recipient of a deceased donor liver. Here, William describes what he went through while waiting for his transplant.
Living Up to the Promise of Living-Donor Transplant Surgery
Liver transplants today don’t make the front-page news as did the pioneering transplant efforts at the University of Chicago Medicine two decades ago. But for Shannon Hickey, one of the earliest patients to undergo the groundbreaking living-donor procedure, the news is still all good. Each year, Shannon and her family mark the anniversary of her transplant surgery by celebrating life, giving thanks and giving back.
Lung
Transplant Patient Finds Friendship with Donor Family
Wanda Samuel was facing a grim prognosis. A debilitating case of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) made it nearly impossible for her to breathe on her own. After receiving a lifesaving organ donation from a young girl, Samuel reached out to thank the donor's family for giving her second chance at life.
Weight Loss Surgery
Weight Loss Surgery: Julia's Story
After having the duodenal switch procedure, Julia Kilgore is feeling great and has a lot more energy.
