In 2014, Albert Martinez’s world was shaken by an unexpected bladder cancer diagnosis. His physician referred him to urologic oncology surgeon Dr. Robert Svatek, one of the top five highest-volume bladder cancer surgeons in the United States.
Dr. Svatek administered several tests and found that Albert’s cancer was still in an early stage and had not yet spread beyond the interior wall of the bladder. To prevent his cancer from spreading, Albert needed surgery.
“When I showed up for surgery, my wife, Elizabeth, and I were nervous, but the staff at CHRISTUS Santa Rosa – Medical Center (CSRH – MC) immediately made us feel comfortable and at ease,” Albert said.
Dr. Svatek successfully removed Albert’s bladder and reconstructed a portion of his intestine to act as a makeshift bladder. Albert spent a few weeks recovering at CSRH – MC and Elizabeth stayed by his side, occupying herself by crocheting beanies to donate to oncology patients at The Children’s Hospital of San Antonio.
“My time recovering in the Hospital could not have been a better experience,” Albert added. “Every person I interacted with, whether it was someone in housekeeping, a chaplain, a nurse, or a nurse’s assistant, went out of their way to make me feel strong and taken care of. I truly created a special bond with my caretakers and felt as if they were my temporary family.”
Three years later, Albert is still cancer free and is enjoying his life with Elizabeth.
“God has done so much for me in my life, and I know that he brought me to CSRH – MC,” Albert said. “I will forever be grateful to Dr. Svatek, to my beautiful wife, and to the staff at Medical Center for saving my life and lifting me back onto my feet.”
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