When in Doubt, Get it Checked Out
Luka Dziubyna
Apr, 2017
Physicians:
Patient Gains New Perspective After Cancer Diagnosis
Cancer. We all hope to go through life without ever hearing the word. At only 36 years of age, Luka Dziubyna, of Niles, was no different.
However, one day Luka noticed a growth on his shoulder. He had had a fatty tumor removed in the past, so at first he thought nothing of it – it was just a simple bump under his skin. But as more time passed, he became concerned and felt he should have the growth looked at. He made an appointment with a general surgeon.
“I am so glad I went and had the biopsy done when I did,” said Luka. “I was shocked when the results came back stating that the growth was cancerous.”
The cancer Luka had was a very rare form known as Dermatofibrosarcoma Protuberans, a type of skin cancer affecting the dermis layer. So rare, in fact, that only about one case per million is diagnosed each year. Upon hearing the news, Luka was shook up.
“My biggest fear came after the cancer diagnosis,” said Luka. “After doing a little research on my own I discovered how easily it can spread.”
The tumor continued to grow. In order to fully remove the cancer it would require leaving an open wound in Luka’s shoulder for two weeks. His surgeon referred Luka to Stonegate Plastic Surgery where they would remove the tumor and effectively repair the large incision site using a skin flap procedure which would move or lift tissue from a donor site to cover the wound.
Luka especially appreciated that his surgeon did not “sugar-coat” things. For Luka, a videographer who used his hands and arms for his livelihood, it was hard to comprehend how much the surgery would limit his mobility.
“Viewing the situation from the non-medical side I wondered why it was necessary for me to have a hole in my shoulder for so long – I thought it would make me more susceptible to infection,” he said.
His surgeon explained the importance of leaving the wound open to ensure all the cancer had been removed from the surrounding area. Luka knew he was in good hands.
Luka’s parents came and joined him for the few days before his surgery and he was grateful for their love and support. The surgery went smoothly and after two weeks of caring for his open wound and changing bandages two to three times a day, Luka was able to undergo a second procedure to close the wound.
Today, Luka is healthy and returned to the videography career he loves. He also has a new perspective on that six letter word no one ever wants to hear.
“Often when we hear a diagnosis of cancer our human minds will immediately go to the worst scenarios,” said Luka. “I encourage everyone to seek out a trusted medical care team like the one I had at Stonegate Plastic Surgery. Many of your concerns and fears can be allayed.”
Luka also walks forward with a new perspective on life.
“This cancer was one of the biggest events in my life,” said Luka. “I never want to go a day without the people around me knowing how I feel about them. I believe things don’t so much happen to us, but rather for us, to allow that growth of character. If I ever had a doubt of how resilient I am, I don't anymore.”