From Diabetes to Cancer Survival: Lois Szymanski’s Comprehensive Care at Beebe Healthcare
Lois Szymanski means it when she tells people that the doctors and nurses at Beebe Healthcare have saved her life, in more than one way. They created an effective treatment plan when she was diagnosed with diabetes, and monitored her health carefully as she came in for insulin injections, week after week. It was during one of those weekly visits that Lois’ care team became concerned about her heart health; they detected a heart murmur, and suggested she schedule a consultation with cardiologist.
Lois heeded to their recommendation, and as it turned out, she needed a heart valve replacement. And as she was undergoing the various testing required in preparation for her cardiac procedure, Lois received even more tough news regarding her health. A lesion was found in her appendix. She was diagnosed with appendix cancer, and needed to take a big step back. Treatment to address her newly-diagnosed cancer was essential, before could proceed with the cardiac care she required.
“There was so much happening at once, and it was overwhelming and scary at first,” recalls Lois. “Then I got started with my chemotherapy treatments at the Tunnell Cancer Center, and the people taking care of me eased my anxiety and made me feel so comfortable. They gave me confidence and reminded me that each step I took was one more in the right direction.”
The value of comprehensive, collaborative, and coordinated care took on new meaning as Lois’ treatment continued. Her clinical providers from cardiology and oncology came together often to monitor her progress, map and adjust her plan of care, and make decisions about how and when to address her various diagnoses, in the most optimal manner.
Ultimately, Lois underwent heart valve replacement surgery first, led by Interventional Cardiologist Mouhanad Freih, MD. A short while later she underwent the Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy (HIPEC) procedure, lead by Oncology Surgeon Jesus Esquivel, MD, to address her appendix cancer.
“My situation was very rare and I was so lucky to have some of the best surgeons guiding me and working together to save my life,” said Lois, a resident of Harbeson. “I am so thankful for Beebe. I would not go anywhere else for my care.”
Today, Lois’ heart health is greatly improved, and her cancer care is continuing with a bi-weekly chemotherapy pill, which she will take for the rest of her life. Fortunately, she is not experiencing any negative side effects as a result of her medication, so she focused on what matters most – time with friends and family, and doing the things that bring her happiness.
“I spend a lot of time in my yard – landscaping, gardening, and enjoying the pool,” said Lois. “I went through a lot, but now I feel great. I am smiling a lot these days.”
“I have the best doctors, best hospital, best cancer staff, and best surgeons, too. I couldn’t ask for a better team," Lois said.
