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Don't Take this Relationship for Granted
Jeff Lindamood
Mar, 2018
Physicians: Olivia Hemlock, FNP
Jeff Lindamood never saw a need to have a primary care provider.
“I didn’t have a family doctor because I never needed one,” said Jeff. “I hardly ever get sick.”
A year ago, that all changed. At the advice of his new employer, the 55-year-old Buchanan resident scheduled a long overdue check-up.
“I had been having stomach aches and problems,” said Jeff. “There were indications that I should have gone sooner.”
Jeff was seen by family nurse practitioner, Olivia Hemlock, FNP.
“Olivia knew I was in a bad state, and she immediately wanted me to be tested,” said Jeff. “Not only did she recognize and respond to the situation quickly, she was very professional and kind, and understood the urgency of it.”
Jeff’s test results came back positive for an aggressive form of cancer.
“Pancreatic cancer is hard to detect,” said Jeff. “When Olivia called me back later that day with my test results she already had my surgical appointment ready, even made sure my insurance would cover it.”
Jeff underwent surgery to remove part of his pancreas, stomach, and intestines. The process took hours and required months of follow-up chemotherapy. Recently, Jeff went in for a CT scan and found out he was cancer free.
“My specialist said if I didn’t get that surgery when I did, I would have been dead within a month,” said Jeff. “I’m just so thankful for Olivia because she really cared.”
Jeff now sees Olivia to make sure his wounds are healing correctly. He’s also required to follow a special diet, and Olivia makes sure Jeff knows what foods he can and cannot eat. They are visits Jeff wouldn’t trade for the world, because he knows each appointment is a learning experience for both of them.
“You develop a relationship with your provider overtime, so both of you know when something is wrong,” said Jeff. “With Olivia, I didn’t have to worry about anything but getting better.”
Don’t have a primary care provider? Lakeland Health offers an easy and convenient way for you to find one in your area. Visit www.lakelandhealth.org/physicians to start your search.