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A F T E R B E I N G D I A G N O S E D
W I T H A R A R E T U M O R ,
G I N G E R I S O N T H E R O A D
T O R E C O V E R Y
By Andrea Nagel
We know
that regular health screenings are important.
Physicals, mammograms, prostate exams and
colonoscopies are just a few of the screenings that
physicians urge us to get. But for those whose routine
screenings come back normal and healthy, it’s easy to
wonder why it’s all necessary.
Ginger Lolley is a healthy 62-year-old who enjoys ex-
ploring northern Idaho, gardening and sewing. Despite
her positive attitude and great health history, Ginger
was recently diagnosed with a rare, progressive tumor
in her colon, which was discovered during a routine
colonoscopy.
“Ginger’s case has been very challenging,” David
Bartels, D.O., medical oncologist, Kootenai Clinic
Cancer Services, said. “Her cancer is one that could
affect any of us and has no relation to lifestyle choices
or genetics. It can be hard for patients like Ginger,
who do things right and are still affected by a difficult
disease.”
Ginger’s diagnosis is a high-grade neuroendocrine
tumor of the colon. This type of tumor forms in the
hormone-producing cells of the body. These cells have
Beating
the Odds
very specific functions, such as regulating air and
blood flow through the lungs and controlling the speed
at which food is moved through the digestive tract.
“Within three weeks of my diagnosis, I completed all
my testing and started treatment,” Ginger said. “All of
the people I’ve encountered along the way have been
so kind, considerate, respectful and caring.”
M A Y O C L I N I C E X P E R T I S E
Because Ginger’s cancer is rare, Dr. Bartels sought a
second opinion on Ginger’s care plan through an
eConsult with Mayo Clinic. Kootenai Health is a
member of the Mayo Clinic Care Network, which
enables Kootenai physicians to connect electronically
with Mayo Clinic specialists when they want additional
input regarding a patient’s care.
“It’s helpful to have an academic discussion with
an expert specializing in a specific type of cancer,”
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LEADING EDGE