Donna Frandsen, 72, was resuming her daily activities after surgery for pelvic organ prolapse when her journey took an unexpected turn.
What started as a procedure to address a manageable condition revealed a life-changing discovery — Donna had ovarian cancer.
Treating Pelvic Floor Prolapse
Prolapse occurs when your pelvic floor muscles weaken, causing your organs to shift. A woman’s chances of developing prolapse increase with pregnancy, vaginal childbirth, menopause, family history/genetics, and smoking, according to Alex Soriano, MD, a urogynecologist and female pelvic reconstructive surgeon.
“Dr. Soriano went over treatment options with me, including pelvic floor physical therapy, an internal support device called a pessary, and surgery," says Donna.
Choosing a Robotic Approach
Energetic and healthy, Donna was interested in the best long-term outcomes for her prolapse, according to Dr. Soriano. "We opted for minimally invasive, robotic-assisted surgery, which offers a reduced risk of prolapse recurrence,” he says. The procedure involved a complete hysterectomy and pelvic floor reconstruction.
“It is important for me to stay healthy and active,” says Donna, who moved to Doylestown 11 years ago to care for her mother who is living with Alzheimer’s disease.
An Incidental Cancer Diagnosis
The robotic approach provided a clear, high-definition view of Donna’s organs. As Dr. Soriano visually assessed her abdomen and pelvis, he identified a mass on Donna’s ovary.
“A mass doesn’t always mean you have cancer,” says Dr. Soriano. “We isolate tissue removed during surgery and send it to the lab for testing.” This time, however, cancer cells were detected in Donna’s tissue.
Treating Donna’s Cancer
“Dr. Soriano referred me to Mark Shahin, MD, a gynecologic oncologist,” says Donna. “I have confidence in my Doylestown Health physicians, and Dr. Shahin was wonderful to me.”
“He performed a same-day, robotic-assisted procedure in April 2024,” recalls Donna. Dr. Shahin removed Donna’s appendix and 17 lymph nodes from her lower pelvic area as well as part of the protective tissue around Donna’s colon. He checked each layer, leaving only healthy tissue behind.
“Though I had to back off visiting my mother for a few days, I felt well and quickly returned to my daily activities,” says Donna.
Time for Chemotherapy
By June, Donna was ready to begin chemotherapy. She would work with Sarah Goodyear, MD. Dr. Goodyear is a medical oncologist and a colleague of Dr. Shahin at the Alliance Cancer Center.
“I feel fortunate that I was able to function and feel well during chemotherapy,” says Donna. “Though I did lose my hair.”
While every person has a unique experience with chemotherapy, Dr. Goodyear finds that her patients are often surprised. Their symptoms are usually not as bad as they think.
“We have medicines to help prevent nausea and reduce side effects,” says Dr. Goodyear. “We work with every patient when they have these issues.”
Next-Generation Sequencing for Maintenance Medication
Dr. Shahin sent a sample of Donna’s tumor for Next Generation sequencing in order to assess its molecular profile. This information provided a personalized approach for her next step — a maintenance medication to help preserve her stable remission. “This medication helps to prevent the growth of blood vessels to tumors,” says Dr. Goodyear, noting that without a blood supply, cancer cells are less likely to survive.
Feeling Grateful
Donna is well aware that ovarian cancer is known for its silent progression. “If I had not opted for the robotic-assisted surgery, my cancer would have likely remained hidden until I had symptoms,” she says. By then, her cancer would have reached a more critical stage.
“I’m thankful for the support and many prayers from my family and friends. I appreciate that I received care close to home and grateful that Dr. Soriano found my cancer,” she says.
Donna appreciates the relationships she has with her team of providers. "At Doylestown Health, I have doctors I can talk to. My providers there answer my questions and deliver my care with professionalism, humor, and knowledge."
Moving Forward
“I know every time I go for a CT scan moving forward, something can show up," she says. "But I see my unexpected diagnosis as a good thing. I believe that whatever is meant to happen will happen," says Donna.
Donna collects antiques and loves to travel. She also enjoys time with friends and family at the Jersey Shore. Now that her treatment is complete, she’s looking forward to planning her next adventure.
Learn more
Learn more about Doylestown Health Gynecologic Oncology Services.
About Doylestown Health Cancer Institute
Doylestown Health Cancer Institute offers patients the quality care they expect from a leader in cancer diagnosis and treatment - close to home. Accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer our board-certified physicians and oncology-certified practitioners provide comprehensive, coordinated care and services for the full range of cancer diagnoses including breast, lung, urologic, gastrointestinal and other cancers.
About the Doylestown Health Pelvic Health Program
Doylestown Health’s Pelvic Health Program treats pelvic floor dysfunction in men and women through urology and rehabilitation services. The pelvic health specialists work with patients to ensure the best possible functioning and management of the bladder, bowel and reproductive organs.
