A Second Chance at Happiness

I am grateful for many facets of my life. I have a wonderful daughter, a fulfilling career at a telecommunications company, and I find joy in life’s simple moments: long walks, time in my garden, and sitting quietly beneath a sky painted in changing colours.

Yet for most of my adult life, endometriosis has been a thief of that joy. It has brought years of intense pain, heavy bleeding and infertility challenges. I was blessed to have my daughter naturally, and I can hardly believe she is now 14. But even after becoming a mother, the pain and bleeding persisted.

A Second Chance at Happiness

I am grateful for many facets of my life. I have a wonderful daughter, a fulfilling career at a telecommunications company, and I find joy in life’s simple moments: long walks, time in my garden, and sitting quietly beneath a sky painted in changing colours.

Yet for most of my adult life, endometriosis has been a thief of that joy. It has brought years of intense pain, heavy bleeding and infertility challenges. I was blessed to have my daughter naturally, and I can hardly believe she is now 14. But even after becoming a mother, the pain and bleeding persisted.

In 2023, my gynecologist referred me to Dr. Abheha Satkunaratnam, an exceptional surgeon at North York General (NYG). My first surgery with him brought relief, and I experienced firsthand his remarkable skill and compassion. Unfortunately, as can happen with endometriosis, the symptoms returned. Despite medication, the pain and bleeding became so severe that it necessitated visits to various Emergency Departments in the Greater Toronto Area.

After careful consultation, it became clear I would need surgery again. Although I no longer lived in the Greater Toronto Area, there was only one surgeon I trusted: Dr. Satkunaratnam. Together, we discussed my options, and I made the difficult decision to proceed with a hysterectomy. As a woman, it was not an easy choice, but it was the right one for me because it offered hope of finally being free from years of suffering.

For this procedure, Dr. Satkunaratnam recommended robotic surgery using the hospital’s newly acquired da Vinci robot. This advanced technology would allow for greater precision, smaller incisions and a faster recovery. While the robot was new to the hospital, Dr. Satkunaratnam brought deep expertise from his prior experience performing robotic surgeries before coming to North York General Hospital as Chief of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Working in an industry that embraces innovation, I was inspired by the opportunity to benefit from leading-edge medical technology. Of course, I still felt some nervousness. I remember asking Dr. Satkunaratnam if he would be in the room. With patience and reassurance, he explained how he would guide the robotic arms from the console, remaining in control throughout the procedure. And his amazing team would be supporting him, and ensuring the procedure goes smoothly. His calm confidence put me completely at ease.

As surgery day drew closer, I had butterflies in my stomach, but I knew I was in good hands. When I arrived on the day, members of the surgical team, including Dr. Satkunaratnam, nurses and the anesthetist, explained the process to me, answered my questions and offered me encouragement. I was thankful they took the time to ensure I felt comfortable. Following the five-hour surgery, I was admitted to a room for an overnight stay. I was so touched that Dr. Satkunaratnam came to see me that night to let me know the surgery went well and inquire how I was feeling. I went home the next morning.

I am recovering well. As expected, some days are easier than others, but I am looking ahead to a future no longer defined by endometriosis. Good health is something many take for granted, but for me, it means everything. I can be fully present with my daughter, embracing the life I love and rediscovering the simple joys that sometimes felt out of reach.

I am deeply grateful to my extraordinary surgical team for their skill and compassion, and to the donors whose generosity made this technology possible. For me, the robot is not just a machine; it is a second chance at health and happiness.

Arpita, A grateful patient

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