Patient Stories
At the University of Chicago Center for Gastrointestinal Oncology, our approach to care is tailored to each patient's needs. Read the stories below to learn more about how individualized care and advanced medicine are helping our patients overcome cancer.
Esophageal Cancer
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.
Pancreatic Cancer
Complex Surgery Helps Woman Beat Pancreatic Cancer
Diana Bohentin had a complex surgery--called the Whipple procedure--to treat her case of pancreatic cancer. Three years later, she's doing well and is enjoying life with family and friends.
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.
Expert Care Help Couple Hit Landmark Anniversary
When Levita was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2006, another Chicago hospital told her that she had less than a year to live and her cancer was beyond treatment. Rather than give up hope, Levita sought help from University of Chicago cancer experts who offered the treatment options and support she needed to continue her fight against the disease.
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.
