The longest health care journey: Sabrina’s Story

Chronic symptoms and living with a general feeling of being unwell can take a toll on anyone – physically, emotionally and mentally. For 54-year old Sabrina Hart of Scotland, Ontario, the health care journey has been a long and challenging one, mainly because it took nearly 15 years to receive a definitive diagnosis.

Initially in 2005, Sabrina’s family doctor monitored her symptoms and referred her to a specialist in Hamilton, but still, there was no firm diagnosis. “After travelling to and from Hamilton for a number of years, I decided to seek care closer to home at Brant Community Healthcare System,” she said. “As my symptoms lingered, I knew something still was not right.”

Fast forward to 2018 when Sabrina was met with unsettling news after further testing. “My radiologist said the symptoms could be the result of a number of issues including a rare type of cancer,” said Sabrina. “After an inconclusive biopsy, I started researching online and, being diligent about my health, organized every test result in chronological order to follow the progression of my condition.”

Sabrina’s specialist at BCHS understood the rarity of her condition and reached out to work on the case with medical director Dr. Kathy Chorneyko who oversees the laboratory at BCHS. “From that point, Dr. Kathy oversaw my case from start to finish advising on pathology test results, and my specialist was instrumental in continuing to provide my care.”

Sabrina points out, medical terminology can be overwhelming and difficult to understand for patients. Dr. Chorneyko was there to help clarify results from a pathology perspective.

“I reached out to Dr. Kathy for help and I am glad I did,” Sabrina said. “She explained things in terms I understood. The communication between us was hands down the most important element to help calm my anxiety and state of mind.”

Over a number of months, Sabrina and Dr. Chorneyko kept in touch by phone and email. “Her professionalism and ability to provide such clear, concise explanations helped get me through some very tough times,” said Sabrina.

After consulting with another specialist in the U.S. and with no known treatment for these rare cells, it was recommended that Sabrina undergo another surgery to remove pre-cancer cells completely from the area of origin and surrounding tissue.

Following a very long journey, Sabrina had the surgery in February 2020 with results showing clear margins. “Looking back, if it weren’t for Dr. Kathy’s help, I probably would have struggled to get to the place where I needed to be.”

Sabrina’s cancer journey is not completely over but she is hoping it will be behind her one day soon. “I am being monitored and going through further tests and appointments,” she said.

Sabrina has some valuable input for health care professionals:

“Whether or not you have heard of or experienced a rare medical issue, don’t assume these rare conditions won’t happen to your patients. I am living proof that not everyone is a text book medical case.”

And for others who may find themselves in a similar health situation, Sabrina said:

“Sign up with MyChart so you can review and follow every test result, and make sure you ask questions immediately if you have concerns. Don’t delay and don’t be afraid to talk to your health care team.”

“Remember, it’s your life – you are at the centre of your care team and only you are in control of your own health care journey.”