by Anthony J. Esposito, D.P.M.

There are three major reasons, I believe, why I was able to build a successful podiatry practice. First, I opened my office in the parish where I grew up, St. Edmund’s, Homecrest, where my mother still lives and attends Mass and many are familiar with me. Second, I treat patients the way I would want to be treated. Finally, I developed an understanding of what patients are feeling and why they are suffering discomfort by quickly trying to diagnose their condition and alleviate their pain.

Ironically, in my past 22 years as a doctor, the one patient with whom I have failed to accomplish the last goal is my 16-year-old daughter Denise. For several months, she complained of pain in her left ankle, which I attributed to her strenuous physical activities. She frequently jogged and sprinted through the neighborhood, in addition to dancing competitively. She always tested her limits, so a sprain would not be uncommon.

I examined her ankle and decided a support and rest would relieve the discomfort, protecting her from further injury, and it did for many weeks. As time passed, the ankle support was no longer helpful, and what really alerted me was that she felt her bone was growing larger. At that point, I thought she was suffering from something more serious in nature that would require more attention, such as a stress fracture. When I reviewed her X-rays, she noticed the serious look on my face. I felt my heart in my throat as I saw a large bone tumor in her tibia. Although it looked benign in nature, I still knew there would be surgery and many months of rehabilitation. I quickly ran the films to my colleagues for their opinions, and everyone agreed: The tumor appeared benign but had to be removed.

Wanting the best possible treatment, we went to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center where they encounter these tumors daily. The specialist also said this was a benign-looking tumor and Denise would be fine. Unfortunately, after two surgeries, it was discovered the tumor was malignant.

The renowned Mayo Clinic recommended amputation as the only definitive way of ensuring no further recurrence. However, our surgeon believed a wide excision would be sufficient as many have been successful. Denise would not need chemotherapy, but would require four more surgeries, one to remove 8.2 centimeters of her ankle bone and three to reconstruct her leg.

The decision was agonizing. After many sleepless nights and a 25-pound weight loss, my patients noticed a change in me. I also felt a strong sense of concern on their part. This was a new feeling for me, as I am usually concerned for their welfare and not the other way around. I decided to be frank and discuss my personal situation with many of them. This opened a floodgate of prayers and intentions for Denise and my family, not only from Catholics but also from patients of other faiths.

I felt my own faith strengthened as I experienced the support of people sending their good wishes and love to a little girl some had never met. I began to think the more I shared her story, the more people would be praying for my daughter, and I knew that would help.

We decided to have the ankle bone removed knowing Denise would never be able to run or dance competitively again – her two favorite activities. She endured a tremendous amount of pain after that third surgery and is currently enduring a lot more pain after her fourth surgery.

Despite all of this, we continue to feel blessed as we have seen many other children suffering from much worse afflictions. Furthermore, the outpouring of love has been overwhelming for our family. Time and again, we are in awe of how many good people are ready to offer a kind word, a sweet card or even just express their compassion.

We also feel extremely lucky to be a part of such a wonderful parish, St. Bernard’s in Mill Basin, and a community of people who genuinely care about each other and are sensitive to each other’s needs.

Please keep Denise in your thoughts and prayers, and may God bless you as well.[hr] Editor’s Note: For more information on how you can help Denise’s family, call St. Bernard’s School at 718-241-6040.