THE BEGINNING OF A JOURNEY

I remember when I first met Chrysti. She was understandably distraught. She had just been diagnosed with stage IIB Breast Cancer, a very aggressive type of tumor. Breast cancer also ran in her family, so there was even more cause for concern. We discussed her options, and I let her know that she had the best team of specialists behind her. I was fully supportive of her extremely difficult, personal decision to have a double mastectomy.

WHERE THERE'S HOPE, THERE'S HEALTH

From my perspective, the protocol after the surgery is crucial to the outcome. Our recommended treatment included a full year of aggressive chemotherapy—which was extended after we discovered a reoccurring cancer gene during treatment. We also added a hormone-blocking therapy that Chrysti would have to take for the next five years. This aggressive plan was a lot to accept, but I told her that we would "knock this cancer out" so we could win the fight. Her strength came from her hope and trust in us. Our team was doing everything possible to get her back to her everyday life, and health.

STAND UP AND FIGHT

We know that a fight like this affects more than just the patient. That's why I guided Chrysti to tap all the great resources here to support her and her entire family—our nutritionist, social worker, spiritual care team, genealogist and more. We understand that cancer affects the entire family and everyone needs healing. And so did Chrysti.

It's great to see how Chrysti has grown stronger—not just physically—but emotionally and spiritually. It's also been great to see her reach out to other patients to help them get through their experiences. Chrysti is an inspiration to us, and we are so happy we were there to help her win the fight. We will always be in her corner, for years to come.

Dr. Nikita Shah, Clinical Oncologist, Breast Cancer Specialty Section, MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando. Board Certified in Medical Oncology and Specializing in Breast Cancer.

GETTING BACK ON TRACK

Amanda was referred to me, as she required surgery for her severed Achilles tendon. There were two things I noticed when Amanda entered my office for our first meeting. First, how concerned she looked, and how unsure she was of what to expect. And second, how proudly she wore her high school cross-country running shirt. I immediately knew that I wanted to put her at ease. So instead of the usual introduction, I said, "Well Amanda, let's get you ready for track." The look on her face said it all. I began to gain her confidence and let her know that we would help get her back on track.

ALL THE RIGHT STUFF

From the beginning, I was confident that Amanda had all the right stuff for a great outcome. She was young, strong, resilient, and determined—qualities of a real athlete. I knew this, coupled with her positive attitude, would help us succeed at getting her back on track. After her surgery, Amanda went through intensive physical therapy to rebuild her strength, and had to wait a full six months before I would let her run again. But during this time, she did everything asked of her, and more. I wasn't surprised when she let me know that her return to the track was a winning one. She was stronger than ever and was actually beating her pre-injury record. What an accomplishment—for all of us. The incredible team at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children is specially trained to address the needs of young athletes, like Amanda, who encounter sports-related injuries. We are just glad we were there to help.

IT'S ALL ABOUT HELPING KIDS AND ATHLETES

I knew this was what I wanted to do with my life since I was a kid. My dad and uncle are both accomplished orthopedic surgeons and were a real inspiration to me. I was always proud to see how much they meant to the families and young athletes they served. Now, I'm so proud to know how much our team at Arnold Palmer Hospital means to deserving kids like Amanda. To me, seeing those kids smile again is what it's all about.

Dr. Jay Albright, Director of Pediatric Sports Medicine at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. Board Certified in Orthopedic Surgery and Sports Medicine and Fellowship Trained in Pediatric Orthopedics and Sports Medicine.

CHOICES FOR WOMEN

When Malcia contacted me for a consultation, I was surprised to hear how long she had suffered with severe uterine fibroids, and the pain and chronic anemia that are associated with this condition. I learned that she was reluctant to address her situation, as she feared having a hysterectomy, and the possible implications and downtime of traditionally invasive surgery. I wanted to alleviate her concerns by discussing the latest minimally invasive techniques available to women today, performed by physicians who are specially trained in performing these advanced procedures.

KNOWLEDGE IS POWER

I was glad Malcia came to me when she did, as she was in discomfort and could have developed other medical complications if she didn't address her condition. When I explained the latest minimally invasive surgical procedure using the daVinci Surgical System™, and that she was a great candidate, she was very relieved. I reviewed the many advantages, including a much shorter hospital stay; quicker recovery time with less pain; fewer and smaller incisions; and the ability to resume normal activities just days after surgery. Malcia was concerned about time away from work, so I could see the relief on her face after we talked. And I am happy to say that she scheduled her surgery soon after.

BACK TO A FULL LIFE

Malcia's surgery had its own challenges given her greatly enlarged uterus and level of anemia, presenting the potential for significant blood loss. Thankfully the precision of my instruments allowed me to work around these obstacles. I am happy to say that the surgery was a success. When I checked in with Malcia 48 hours later, I was happy to hear that she was up, walking and functioning with no difficulty—and better yet, no painkillers. That's what I like to hear.

Subsequent checks confirmed that she regained her strength, had no pain and was even back to exercising. She was back to life, as she once knew it.

Dr. Jessica Vaught, Medical Director of the Women's Health Institute at Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies. Board Certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

A CALL FOR QUICK ACTION

When John arrived at Orlando Regional Medical Center in a coma, he was in cardiac arrest. Basically, his heart had stopped beating. We were extremely concerned about the flow of blood to his heart and brain, and decided to use the latest Artic Sun^® to dramatically cool his body temperature for his protection. As time passed, we gradually re-warmed his body to awaken him and determine our plan of action to address his heart condition. We learned that he had a long history of cardiac issues, but none as critical as this event. After a catheterization, it was clear that he needed a defibrillator inserted, but his condition was serious. I knew it was not only him we had to worry about, but also his wife and son that were by his side.

THE ODDS WERE ON OUR SIDE

As part of the heart and vascular team at Orlando Regional Medical Center, I like knowing that I can make a positive difference in the lives of my patients and their families. I've got everything I need right here to save lives that might otherwise be lost—the specialists, the support staff, the diagnostic tools and the most advanced technology for advanced cardiac care. But I have to say that John was one of the lucky ones. After his heart surgery, I wanted to reassure his family but also let them know the possibility of what could occur. I saw the worry on his wife's and son's faces, and encouraged everyone to hope for the best. And the best happened. He woke up the day before Christmas with no side effects or neurological impact. He was truly my holiday miracle.

A LIVING MIRACLE

I have the best job in the world. John's outcome is why I love what I do. The entire team involved played an important part in John being here today. We are thrilled we were able to bring this father back to his family. I still see John every few months for check-ups, and he is doing very well. I will always remember that you don't get gifts like this often. And what a perfect one it was.

Dr. Arnold Einhorn, Cardiologist at Orlando Regional Medical Center. Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease and Internal Medicine. F.A.C.C., F.A.C.P.

A LONG JOURNEY TOGETHER

I'm not just John's cardiologist, I'm his primary doctor—a job I assigned myself 10 years ago, given his chronic heart problems. So it should come as no surprise to hear that I've seen John through all kinds of serious procedures from repeat catheterizations to coronary bypass, and even gallbladder surgery. And yet, after eight years of treatment, there he was again in the emergency room, this time with abdominal and chest pain. I assigned a team of specialists and they performed yet another heart catheterization, and recommended that John have an endoscopy to explore the cause of his stomach pain. But John was insistent that he felt better, and just wanted to get home and enjoy his family.

MORE PIECES TO THE PUZZLE

Not five months later, he's back. This time he had an attack while on a business trip, and when he got home was immediately admitted. I have to confess, I was frustrated, I'd been treating John for some time now and here he was again. After careful consideration an endoscopy and emergency stent were performed, and in the course of surgery, we found Stage IIIB Pancreatic Cancer. Not good. I immediately brought in an elite team of specialists from MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando.

HIS RECOVERY HAS BEEN OFF THE CHARTS

In many ways I was relieved we had finally determined the cause of John's main medical problem. He would have our top cardiac team, our top surgeons, and our premiere oncologists and radiologists available to him. But if you know John, you'd swear it was John's faith in all of us, and in God that really did the trick.

We wished we had found the cancer sooner. John dismissed that, and called us "God's Miracles." He wrote letters in praise of our staff and urged us to, "Keep the Culture Going."

But he didn't stop there. Once cancer free, John went on to lose 47 pounds and began a regimen of healthy eating and exercise; that's been a real inspiration to see. And a great relief to me personally, given our longstanding relationship.

Dr. Louis Kantounis, Cardiologist at South Lake Hospital. Board Certified in Cardiology and Internal Medicine. F.A.C.C.

IT'S ALL ABOUT ASKING THE RIGHT QUESTIONS

Mike came into the emergency department at South Seminole Hospital short of breath and requiring oxygen. He looked critical to me—nothing like the pneumonia he'd had years before. This time, I knew there wasn't much time. We would need to intubate to control his breathing, start him on medication, and I had to ask a few questions fast! How did it start? What if anything have you been doing lately that's out of the ordinary? And when I heard he'd been traveling a lot for work, I immediately suspected a blood clot had formed in his lungs. Those are serious, and can be life threatening, so I insisted Mike's wife be called right away. And was never so touched as when he professed his love, and sang to her on the phone.

BECAUSE FAMILY IS EVERYTHING

I know first hand how it feels to be the family member of a critically ill loved one, because I have a child that was born prematurely. That experience taught me a lot, and I've made many changes in my emergency room to address the needs of both patient and family members. I truly know how important it is to keep everyone informed and involved, to truly care, and to work as a team every step of the way—patient, doctor, nurse and everyone involved in a patient's care. To me, this community and our hospital are my extended family. And Mike and his wife were no exception.

A SECOND CHANCE AT LIFE

In Mike's case, my intuition and quick response could not have paid off better. What at first looked like a slim chance of survival has turned into a lifelong relationship. Mike occasionally comes back to see me, and every time he looks better than ever. He's lost weight and is really turning his health around—he's so grateful to have survived, not just for himself, but also for his entire family. And I'm glad to have been able to give Mike that chance. That's what's so rewarding about being an emergency room doctor.

Dr. Rakesh Parekh, Medical Director, Emergency Medicine at South Seminole Hospital. Board Certified in Emergency Medicine.

A STEP-BY-STEP PROCESS

I first met Haley in August of 2007 when the curve in her back was moderately severe, but not bad enough to indicate surgery. I recommended a night brace, which seemed to be working quite well until Haley went through a growth spurt. We ran more tests, and discovered the curve in Haley's spine was even more exaggerated, so we added a day brace to the protocol.

Haley didn't like it much, but she tolerated it well until July 2009, when the curve in her spine had reached 60 degrees at the top, and 45 degrees at the bottom. It was clear that bracing was not going to be sufficient to solve Haley's problem. It was time to discuss a surgical solution. Haley was naturally a little nervous, but as we'd been working together for years, she trusted me. And when I explained that it would help her to be able to remain active later in life, and even play volleyball again, she began to warm up to the idea.

ADDRESSING THE FAMILY'S FEARS

Haley's mom and her grandma had always been very involved in her treatment, so I carefully explained the benefits of the surgery to both of them. I pointed out that despite our earlier efforts, her scoliosis was advancing and would continue to do so. I added that left unaddressed scoliosis can be deforming, cause pulmonary problems, and result in a lifetime of significant back pain. Now was the time to act, and this surgery was the answer.

I also explained that Arnold Palmer Hospital has one of the top scoliosis surgery centers in the nation, with more highly skilled pediatric orthopedics specialists than Haley could find elsewhere. But what really put the family at ease was the tour of the hospital. I arranged for Haley and her family to preview exactly what was going to happen, and to meet all the people who were going to help us make this surgery a success. That was so beneficial to all of them.

MY LITTLE HERO

To say Haley was a model patient would only be half the story. After watching her struggle, and seeing how she handled it, I'd say she's a model person. She even found numerous ways to turn her experience into something positive. She started a Facebook page to help other teens cope and to teach about early detection. She even did a TV interview about scoliosis. But to me, the greatest reward was the smile on her face when I finally said "Okay, time for the volleyball court!"

Dr. Knapp, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgeon and Chief of Scoliosis at Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. Board Certified in Ortho Pediatric Surgery.

WORLD-CLASS SUPPORT IN OUR OWN BACKYARD

I've had the honor of helping more than 28,000 babies since I started working at Orlando Health over 34 years ago. Some born prematurely who need our help to breathe and, some with congenital birth defects like Melanie's daughter—whose only option 10 years ago would have been a heart transplant. Thankfully, at places like Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women & Babies, we can now correct these problems in infancy, before risky transplant surgeries become necessary. In fact, over the years, I've watched Winnie Palmer Hospital turn into one of the greatest resources a mother and her newborn could have. We have a credentialed staff like no other—many like myself who have spent their entire careers here, and all the high-tech tools needed to provide world-class care to these families right here, at home.

A LABOR OF LOVE

I believe in the high level of care at Winnie Palmer so I do everything in my power to contribute to its growth. I created a race called "The Miracle Mile," which benefits the NICU at the hospital. Over the years this race has raised funds to provide incubators, cooling blankets, and many other essential tools that help save the lives of these babies. This race also reunited me with my very first patients, Michelle, Melanie, and their mom. Imagine, former patients, mere newborns…returning as adults, supporting your interests, and sharing your goals. Michelle has participated every year since and continues to win. Melanie became an employee of the hospital system.

A GIFT BEYOND COMPARE

I consider it a gift that every day we're able to help hundreds of newborns survive. In good measure because of the support of people like Michelle, Melanie, and their family, the commitment of a highly skilled medical team, and accessibility to cutting-edge medical equipment. Caring for these babies and their families has enriched my life, and is the reason I come to work every day.

Dr. Gregor Alexander, Neonatologist, Chairman, Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children. Board Certified in Perinatal Medicine and Neonatal Medicine.

PEOPLE NEED A SECOND CHANCE

What I love about what I do is that it gives people like Steve a second chance to get their lives back together. In the 90s Steve was a world champion on the shooting range. He traveled a lot, and made poor food choices. He also went through a divorce and struggled with depression—all of which negatively impacted his weight, and took a toll on his knees. The cycle was classic. Steve had to get control of his situation. And he did! He decided on Lap-Band^® surgery.

THE GREAT THING ABOUT LAPBAND^® SURGERY

This was a relatively new procedure when Steve had it done, back in 2007. In fact, he was the second patient we performed this surgery on, and because it’s minimally invasive, Steve was up and around in no time. It's also fairly simple, and involves placing a small adjustable band around the top of the stomach to make the patient feel full faster, and slow the progress of food to the lower stomach—it helps them stay full longer, too.

When the surgery was completed we designed a new diet plan for Steve, so he'd know how to get enough nutrition without overeating. He also had counseling to help deal with the psychological barriers to his success.

Since the surgery, Steve has lost more than 90 pounds, has gained back his confidence, met and married a wonderful woman, and is shooting competitively again. He even went in for a knee replacement, and now he's back in action. Talk about a success story! He made it happen. I just helped him break the cycle.

THE PLEASURE IS ALL MINE

I now see more of Steve than ever. As a patient, I check and adjust his band every couple of months. We also continue to shoot together, and get together as friends, so I get to see the positive difference this surgery has made in his life from a lot of different angles. And that's so rewarding.

Dr. Daryl Wier, Bariatric Surgeon Specializing in Advanced Laparoscopic Procedures, at Orlando Regional Medical Center. Board Certified in General Surgery.

COMFORT AND ENCOURAGEMENT

I know that discussing this kind of subject can be awkward for many people. Bowel health is something most people don't like to talk about. So I consider it my first job to make people comfortable enough to talk about their problem. And I encourage them to get a colonoscopy, which I consider good preventative medicine.

It was no different when Jackie came into my office explaining she'd just had knee surgery and that her general health seemed to change after that. I assured her that was fairly normal. She had been less active lately, and therefore so had her bowel function. I also explained that a change in medications or diet can prompt a change in bowel behavior, and made a few dietary recommendations that I felt would help. Finally, I encouraged her to get a colonoscopy, adding that there was likely nothing to worry about—and went on to explain the procedure.

GIRL TALK ALWAYS MEANS LAUGHTER

The worst part of the procedure, I said, was probably the taste of the fluids she would have to drink the day before, so we have a nice clean colon to inspect. That made her laugh, and she confided that when she first met me she was pleased and surprised to discover that I was a woman. I told her I hear that a lot from my female patients. And I understand why they feel that way.

There aren't a lot of colorectal surgeons in the area so I see quite a few men in my practice, too. In fact, my partner and I perform three to four colonoscopies each week, and on average nine to ten colorectal procedures.

I LOVE TO GIVE PEOPLE GOOD NEWS

Thankfully, the colonoscopy I had performed on Jackie confirmed my suspicion—she was fine. I expressed to her how smart I thought she was to have had the procedure, because colon cancer is easy to cure if it's detected early. I feel lucky to work in an area of medicine where I always have a great chance at a good outcome. I just love to give people good news.

Dr. Alice Lee, Colorectal Surgeon at Dr. P. Phillips Hospital. Board Certified in General and Colorectal Surgery.

YOU CAN'T BEAT A DIGITAL MAMMOGRAM

What I, Dr. Silberbusch, saw when I looked at Omaira's pictures was so small I doubt a traditional mammogram would even have found it. In fact, it was so small I even questioned the CAD, so I asked for additional photos. There it was, in the same spot again. I scheduled a biopsy right away.

I also believe in wasting no time contacting our patients and treating them as quickly as possible. That phone call when we see something wrong can be very traumatic. The sooner we can get them a real answer and explain a plan of action the better it makes them feel. It's also the best thing for the outcome. Early detection can make all the difference.

THE SUM IS GREATER THAN THE STRONGEST PART

That's when I involved Dr. Wiese. He's a very dedicated, talented, and extremely detailed surgeon at South Seminole Hospital. We're lucky to have him here. We're equally lucky to have access to a "best-in-class" hospital system, Orlando Health, which enables all these specialists to work together. It's a multi-disciplinary approach to treatment, and there's no better way to practice medicine.

Dr. Wiese recommended the lumpectomy, and said, "just to be on the safe side we want you to follow up with a short series of radiation treatments." And that's where Dr. Shah, from MD Anderson Cancer Center Orlando came in. It was quite a team.

THERE'S STRENGTH IN NUMBERS

Omaira's a very strong woman. So when I learned that her husband would be overseas in Afghanistan during this period of time, and her parents were not well enough to assist her, I said, "This has got to be exhausting, and a little frightening to be going through alone." She assured me that she'd made so many good friends here, and had lots of support, from the nurses, the other doctors, and especially from me. She thanked me again and again, which was really touching. Here she was the one in distress, yet she was comforting me. That's when you know all your efforts are appreciated, and what makes my job so rewarding: people like Omaira. She's a truly remarkable woman.

Dr. Silberbusch, Chief of Radiology at South Seminole Hospital, Women’s Imaging Center. Board Certified in Diagnostic Radiology.

Dr. Wiese, General Surgeon at South Seminole Hospital. Board Certified by The American Board of Surgery.

A TRUST BUILT BY HISTORY

Every year Mrs. Spears makes me her special signature black and white cookies for Christmas. That's the wonderful thing that happens when you’re the family doctor—you become a part of the family. It was the same with my dad and his patients. Bill and Betty Spears were part of our family even before I joined the practice. I've known them since I was a little kid. It's that kind of history with one another that builds trust and great care.

THEY'RE AN INSPIRATION TO ME AS A DOCTOR

They're both 81 years old, and they both have COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease). Mr. Spears' case is more debilitating than his wife's—but she has some neurological issues that throw off her balance. She fell and broke her hip a few years ago. Then there was the surgery for carotid artery disease last year that she swears affected her voice. I know how serious these issues are as their family doctor, but you'd never know it to talk to them. They're both remarkably cheerful, upbeat, and have a positive outlook on their lives. I think they both have a great deal of courage, facing their health challenges like they do, and it's very inspiring to me as a doctor.

WE'RE VERY CLOSE

I'm never very far from the two of them, literally. They live just a few blocks away from the hospital where I work. So if they have a problem, I'm where they go. We make it a point to see one another several times a year, even if everything's fine. Just to check up on their medications, take their blood pressure, and ask a few questions.

It's the same kind of relationship my father had with them, and it's given me a perspective on the importance of really knowing your patients. I get an inside look into their lives on a very personal level. I can assess and treat them with full knowledge of their past. It is this kind of long-term interaction that leads to great medical decisions and longevity for our patients.

Dr. Thomas Kelley, Family Medicine Physician at South Seminole Primary Care. F.A.M.P.

A STEP IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION

When Juan came to me for a consult, he looked familiar and I soon realized that he was an employee of South Seminole Hospital. His symptoms were pretty severe and that's why his primary care physician referred him to me. Juan was experiencing growing and persistent pain in his right leg. After discussing his symptoms, and the impact it was having on his work and personal life, it was clear that the very poor circulation in his leg needed treatment immediately.

BACK TO HEALTH AND LIFE

After doing an ultrasound that pinpointed the blockage in his leg, I saw that Juan had PAD (Peripheral Arterial Disease). I explained to Juan that he was a great candidate for the latest minimally invasive procedure that could be done on an outpatient basis, allowing for a very quick recovery. A minimally invasive procedure, known as an arteriogram with atherectomy, was done to fix the blockage from the inside out. Juan was home the next morning and able to walk, pain free. This was tremendous considering the very severe case he had. He no longer had to live a life in discomfort – it was time to get back to work and life, as he once knew it.

A SIMPLE PROCEDURE, IMMEDIATE RESULTS

It's amazing how many people have PAD and either don’t realize it, or don't seek treatment fearing the side effects of surgery. This is unfortunate because many, like Juan, are candidates for the minimally invasive procedure that offers immediate results. South Seminole Hospital is one of few community hospitals in Central Florida with a State-of-the Art Cath Lab to perform such procedures. I only wish more people in the community knew this!

Dr. Rajendra Patel, Medical Director Vascular Center at South Seminole Hospital. Board Certified in Vascular Surgery and General Surgery.