In 2022, Dr. Doerfler recommended I get a MRI scan as I had a few symptoms of multiple sclerosis. He said he didn't think I would have M.S, but suggested I get a scan to be on the safe side. The results showed no M.S., but showed a grapefruit-sized ovarian cyst. He highly recommended I have surgery to remove it. So, a few months later, I had the operation.
If Dr. Doerfler didn't request I get a MRI because of the one or two symptoms of M.S. I had, the grapefruit-sized ovarian cyst would mostly likely turn into cancer later down the road. I would have never known I would've had a ticking time bomb inside of me! He literally saved my life and I'm very grateful for that.
My gynecological oncologist removed the cyst, but before she could do so, she had to cut through a mass of adhesions which took a little over four hours. My abdominal cavity was encased with adhesions from previous surgeries. The hysterectomy surgery took longer than expected and unfortunately landed me in the ICU with sepsis. It was from when my surgeon accidentally nicked my small intestine. I almost died, but thankfully pulled through with no organ damage.
After a two week stay in the hospital, I became overly worried about the adhesions I had. I was worried it would potentially cause a complete intestinal blockage down the road. I read about what adhesions could do and this was why I became obsessed with it. I worried I would need to go back into the hospital because my intestine would be damaged and thus create more health problems.
I had to eventually make an appointment to see Dr. Doerfler for some minor issues I had after my operation. When I called to make an appointment, the receptionist asked how I was doing and I told her it felt like I was dealing with PTSD. I couldn't stop thinking about the what ifs from my ovarian cyst/ hysterectomy operation. The receptionist must have informed Dr. Doerfler because I received a call from him a few hours later. He asked me why I felt like I had PTSD. I told him why and he listened empathically and gave good advice. He talked to me for about 20 minutes over the phone. He was trying to calm my fears and he did. I was surprised he talked to me this long, but he's the kind of doctor who truly cares for his patients. He's one of a kind and my husband ( who is also a patient of his ) and I will truly miss him when he retires. We highly recommend him! Thank you Dr. Doerfler!!
