TOY

In 2020, Dr. Karen Smith felt a lump in my abdomen, and I was subsequently diagnosed with ovarian cancer. I underwent surgery in an out-of-town hospital. I had some post-operative complications and ended up staying in the hospital much longer than anticipated. It was very lonely and very scary, being in an unfamiliar city, in an unfamiliar hospital, and being near the beginning of the COVID pandemic. Dr. Smith called me several times while I was in the hospital, just to see how I was doing and to offer words of encouragement. She also sent several TOY text message - I had to ask her what that meant and she told me it stood for "Thinking of You". I am now more than three years out from surgery and doing well. I remember being in the hospital and how Dr. Smith's tangible concern for me and for my husband was so important. She helped us get through that most difficult time and I am eternally grateful.