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Patient Stories

Our patient stories profile a number of UPMC Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery patients. Although everyone’s care experience is unique, we hope that sharing these stories will help other prospective patients and their families better understand these procedures and their potential benefits.

Troy: Ulcerative Colitis Patient Story

Photo of Troy and his family.

Diagnosed with ulcerative colitis at 17 years old, Troy was able to manage the disease with the help of his local doctors. That was up until 2023, when he began feeling a stabbing pain near his stomach. His doctors referred him to UPMC, where he utilized telemedicine before surgery in Pittsburgh.

Read Troy's story

Colon Cancer Patient Story

Image of Matt with his family.

Matthew found out he had colon cancer when he was 39. Read about the comprehensive care he received from UPMC that included multiple surgeries and chemotherapy.

Read Matthew Hurney's story

Seth Leone: Crohn’s disease

Image of Joe and Seth Leone.

Seeing his son, Seth, in severe pain due to intestinal distress caused by Crohn’s disease, Joe Leone turned to the experts at UPMC for treatment. Despite living more than two hours away from Pittsburgh, Seth was able to conveniently receive the care he needed via telemedicine, up until it was time for surgery.

Read Seth Leone's story

Rectal Cancer Patient Story

Image of Cindy and Doug Cook.

Months after a delayed colonoscopy, Cindy found out she had a 4.9 cm tumor. It was then that she received the recommendation to seek cancer care at UPMC.

Read Cindy Cook's story

William Hagarman: Crohn’s disease

Image of William Hagarman.

Diagnosed with Crohn’s disease at 16 years old, William Hagarman went nearly 20 years without many health issues. But after losing his appetite - and weight - in 2023, he was referred to UPMC, where he was able to conveniently use video visits to meet with his doctor until it was time for surgery.

Read William Hagarman's story