Often we hear negatives about government hospitals but that isn’t the case for Candice Setton-Stein, who got life-saving surgery to fight an aggressive cancer diagnosis.
Johannesburg, South Africa (07 November 2023) – The Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital is a great source of joy for Candice Setton-Stein, who received a life-saving surgery to treat a very aggressive form of cervical cancer. She reached out to sing the praises of her medical team
Candice’s cancer journey was a whirlwind due to the aggressive nature of her cancer. She was diagnosed with Adenocarcinoma Cervical Cancer and because she didn’t have medical aid, her Gynecologist insisted that she get to the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital urgently to start treatment.
When Candice arrived, she learned that the waiting list was already well into 2024. This meant her aggressive cancer would spread but thankfully, the surgical team that took on her case, made sure she got treatment sooner to help stop the spread. From the surgeons to the entire staff of Ward 196, Candice says the experience was one that has left her feeling incredibly grateful.
This is her story, shared in her own words.
“I hope I will be able to express my deep gratitude accurately through sharing my story.
On 12 October 2023, I was diagnosed with Adenocarcinoma Cervical Cancer. Due to not having medical aid my gynae suggested I get into Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital, as soon as possible. You see, this type of cancer spreads FAST. I went the same day to open a file and make an appointment with the oncology department.
Now you hear these terrible stories about people’s experiences and so naturally I was a little nervous but let me tell you, from that very first day I had nothing but friendly service from everyone. I managed to book an appointment for 17 October 2023 – only five days after my first visit and file opening.
17 October came and I met with the surgeon who read my file, answered my questions and did his own checks. At this point, he advised me that the waiting list for surgery was well into 2024 but I didn’t have time to wait until then so he was going to speak to the head of surgery and see what they could do. He came back into the room and advised he would be seeing me on 23 October 2023 to be booked into hospital and that my surgery would take place on 25 October 2023. It was a miracle, an answered prayer. It was happening and I felt a deep sense of relief as this surgery was vital.
My entire hospital stay, it was just one amazing person after another. I felt cared for, heard and very well looked after. From interns and students to nurses and surgeons – what an amazing team. They truly made a very scary time in my life just that much easier with their amazing care.
I spent a total of seven days in their care and still have a long road ahead but one thing I know for sure is that their fast-acting on my case has very likely saved my life as from what they could tell from surgery the cancer was localized and they were happy with the op. I will still need further treatment but it could have been so much worse had it been left any longer.
I am deeply grateful and CMJAH have a great thing going. I know I am in great hands going forward on this journey”
Any medical treatment is scary but having a dedicated team that works to help you fight your battles, makes all the difference. For Candice, the staff of Ward 196 and her doctors, Dr Maringa and Dr Stosoeu assisted by Dr Hela (who was Candice’s first point of contact) and Dr Ledwaba are the reason she will take on this next phase of her fight, with a strong footing.
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