At 40 years old, Tania’s world changed with a diagnosis she never expected. As a single mother and a nurse, she was used to caring for others. Now, she was the one in need of care. What happened next is a story of surgical innovation and gratitude.
Here is Tania’s story in her own words:
My journey began in June 2014 when I was a 40-year-old single mother and a dedicated nurse. I received a diagnosis that shook my world. Stage 1 stomach cancer. Fear engulfed me.
I was trained to care for others, yet in that moment, I could only focus on the relentless what-ifs. I was told I would need a total gastrectomy which means the removal of my stomach. My heart raced at the thought of such a significant surgery. The uncertainty terrified me. I was worried for my future and how it would affect my precious children.
When I had my surgery at Surrey Memorial Hospital (SMH) in November 2014, I was one of the first, if not the first, in the province to have this very complex procedure performed using minimally-invasive surgery. Dr. Ashrafi, the Chief of Thoracic Surgery at SMH, was pioneering this technique.
With my permission, my procedure was filmed, and Dr. Ashrafi has since used it extensively to teach other surgeons how to do it. The technique is much better for patients because the risks of complications are lower and the recovery easier. I can attest to this. My surgery and recovery went very well. Because of Dr. Ashrafi, and surgical innovation, I have spent the last 10 years leading a great life, raising my children.
Not only did I overcome my battle with cancer, but over the last decade, I also graduated with honours as a psychiatric nurse, I competed in a body building competition which earned me a second-place trophy, I have watched three of my children graduate high school, my son graduate as a correctional officer, my other son get married, and I was blessed to gain the very important title as a Nana.
I am so incredibly appreciative of Dr Ashrafi for his exceptional care of me and to his and others’ unwavering commitment to advancing surgical innovation for our community. It saves lives. I’m proof.
Tania’s story is a testament to the power of surgical innovation and compassionate care at Surrey Memorial Hospital. As we continue to transform patient care, we are working to establish a best-in-class robotic-assisted surgical program which will allow surgeons to deliver more precise procedures for patients facing some of life’s greatest health challenges.
Your support is what makes innovation possible. Donate today to ensure that life-changing treatment remains accessible to everyone in Surrey and the surrounding region.
