Petula Holden

Colon Cancer Surgery

I’ve always been a great supporter of cancer awareness, but I never thought I would be a cancer patient. Thanks to General Surgery Associates, Dr. Damian DeFrancesch and my faith, I’m alive today. Dr. DeFrancesch found the cancer during a routine colonoscopy when I turned 50. I was in disbelief. He sent tissue samples to the lab which confirmed stage 4 cancer, so Dr. DeFrancesch would not let me waste any time scheduling the surgery. I went to NRMC where he removed that section of my colon. We discovered the cancer was dangerously close to invading my liver. The whole time, Dr. DeFrancesch was there for me — caring, encouraging and supporting me. He was also there for my family with any concerns. I’m so thankful for General Surgery Associates and NRMC and grateful to have my life.