Bravery in the Unknown: Susie’s Story

At only 32 years old, Susie had been experiencing sporadic back pain for a few years, easily dismissing it due to her overall good health.

However, in early 2024, Susie experienced an episode that made it nearly impossible to sit, stand or sleep. After a visit to her doctor and seeing no improvement, Susie went to the emergency department at Orlando Health Horizon West Hospital. What initially appeared to be a gallstone attack developed into a shocking discovery - a solid pseudopapillary tumor was protruding from the head of her pancreas.

Susie was transferred to Orlando Health Orlando Regional Medical Center (ORMC) for expert specialty care. Fearful, but also reassured by her esteemed nurses and physicians, Susie underwent an 8-hour Whipple surgery to remove the tumor.

After surgery, doctors returned with positive news: the tumor was not cancerous. Within hours, Susie was up and walking the halls, taking steps toward a full recovery. Within a month, Susie began feeling back to her usual self.

Susie’s story showcases the value of listening to one’s body and that patients can find answers to health challenges and improve their quality of life with attentive, compassionate and experienced care.

The Whipple Procedure is the most common, yet complex, surgery to remove tumors in the pancreas.

Susie’s family together with her after her successful surgery.

Tax-Smart Giving

In gratitude for the care their daughter received at Orlando Health ORMC, Susie’s parents, Jim and Martha, donated shares of stock as a meaningful way to support patients.

Donating stock allows for a tax deduction for the total value of the stock while avoiding capital gains taxes. To learn more, visit OrlandoHealthPlannedGiving.com or call (321) 841-9844.

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