Chuck's Robotic Surgery Kidney Cancer Story

 Chuck and his wife, Kim
Chuck and his wife, Kim.

When Chuck Page was diagnosed with transitional cell carcinoma, a form of renal cancer that affects the bladder, he couldn't believe cancer had happened to him. He had been experiencing lower back pain, which he suspected was a problem with his kidneys but thought could be managed on his own. When he started noticing blood in his urine, he grew concerned and visited his doctor, who confirmed that a tumor was growing at the top of his kidney.

"When we found out it was cancer, we sat down and agreed it was overwhelming news," said Chuck's wife, Kim. "We're spiritual people, though, so we dealt with our fears, shared our feelings about everything, and agreed to put up a good fight. Everything else we put in the hands of God and of course, Chuck's doctor."

Chuck's doctor said he was a perfect candidate for robotic surgery, which offers fast recovery times, minimal pain and a quick return to normal. He was referred to Dr. Julian Anthony, a Sharp Chula Vista Medical Center-affiliated urologist and chairman of the hospital's Robotic Surgery Program, and was scheduled for surgery. The surgery was quick and successful; once finished, Chuck was declared cancer-free.

As he was wheeled out of the robotic surgery suite, he groggily insisted he needed his pants. Kim assured him they weren't necessary as he wasn't going anywhere, but Chuck persisted, so she retrieved them from the car. Handing over her husband's pants, Chuck handed back a small jewelry box he had pulled from the pocket. Inside was a diamond ring.

"It's our 'We survived cancer' present," Chuck told her.

Today, Chuck is back to his normal self, though more watchful over his health, mindful of his diet and exercise, and grateful for every day. Kim continues to enjoy her beautiful ring and the best present of all: a healthy husband.

For More Information
To learn more about Sharp's robotic surgery services or to find a Sharp-affiliated physician, search for San Diego doctors or call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277), Monday through Friday, 8 am to 6 pm.