Ekaterina Gurskayas Hodgkins Lymphoma Treatment Success Story: A Journey of Hope and Healing in Germany
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For Ekaterina Gurskaia, a young mother from Moldova, the road to recovery began with a delayed diagnosis and ineffective treatment in her native country and ended with a new lease on life. Her story is one of perseverance, hope, and the transformative power of seeking quality medical care abroad.
Content
- A Delayed Diagnosis and a Critical Decision
- Choosing Germany: A Beacon of Hope
- A World of Difference: Treatment at University Hospital Rechts der Isar Munich
- The Booking Health Difference: Support Every Step of the Way
- A New Chapter: Life After Recovery
- A Message of Hope
A Delayed Diagnosis and a Critical Decision
At the age of 32, Ekaterina's life took an unexpected turn when she discovered a swollen lymph node. Despite her concerns, local doctors in Moldova dismissed it, advising her to "wait for it to resolve on its own." It wasn't until two years later, after contracting COVID-19, that the severity of her condition became apparent.
"The lymph node increased to the size of a walnut," Ekaterina recalls. "It was about four and a half centimeters."
The situation was particularly distressing for Ekaterina as a mother of a young child. "Of course, you can imagine, I have a small child," she shares. "I understand that I have cancer, and I don't know the stage, I don't know at all what my chances are to survive, to be cured."
A second opinion finally led to a suspected diagnosis of lymphoma and the final diagnosis was Hodgkin's lymphoma, but the challenges were far from over. Faced with long waiting times and limited resources in Moldova's healthcare system, Ekaterina made the critical decision to seek treatment abroad.
Choosing Germany: A Beacon of Hope
Ekaterina's search for international treatment options led her to consider several countries, including Turkey, Israel, and Germany. However, it was the personal touch and professionalism of Booking Health, particularly her case manager Denis Walter, that ultimately guided her decision.
"Denis somehow understood me so well," Ekaterina shares. "I saw a personal desire, a real, sincere desire to help. That's why I decided to choose Booking Health."
During the uncertain period before her departure, Denis became a crucial source of support. "Of course, I panicked and bothered Denis until I left," Ekaterina admits. "Every time I was worried, when I was anxious, I wrote to him and complained on WhatsApp that I was scared. And to my relief, every time I was treated with understanding. Every time he answered, he calmed me down. Although I understand that this is not a part of his duties, to babysit patients."
A World of Difference: Treatment at University Hospital Rechts der Isar Munich
Ekaterina's journey took her to the renowned University Hospital Rechts der Isar Munich, a world-class medical facility known for treating high-profile patients. The contrast between her experiences in Moldova and Germany was stark.
"Everything inside is perfectly clean, and sterile, and looks brand new," Ekaterina marvels. "There are many doctors who are senior professors in their field, and they demonstrate a great attitude and understanding of how to work with a cancer patient."
One particular incident stood out to her, illustrating the extraordinary level of care she received. "Once a nurse needed to take my blood, and I saw that she was young. I was worried that if she did not get into the vein successfully, she would have to pierce the vein again and again. And I asked her several times: 'Do you know for sure that you can do this?' And the chemist, who is a professor, heard our conversation and said, 'Do you want me to take your blood?' For example, in my country, a professor will not offer to take blood."
The comprehensive treatment plan included surgery, chemotherapy, and innovative radiotherapy not available in Moldova. Throughout her stay, Ekaterina was impressed by the level of care and attention she received, even from senior medical staff.
"The Department of Hematology and Oncology at University Hospital Rechts der Isar Munich is renowned for its excellence in cancer care. The department, headed by the esteemed Prof. Dr. Med. Florian Bassermann is certified as the Comprehensive Cancer Center Munich and holds a quality certificate from the German Cancer Society. It offers a full spectrum of cutting-edge treatments, including innovative CAR T-cell therapy and both autologous and allogeneic bone marrow transplantation. Treatment plans are developed through interdisciplinary tumor boards, ensuring each patient receives personalized, optimal care. The department's commitment to innovation is matched by its focus on patient well-being, offering nutritional counseling and psychological support throughout the treatment journey. State-of-the-art equipment and the implementation of innovative treatment methods are hallmarks of the department's approach to patient care, making it an ideal setting for complex cancer treatments like Ekaterina's."
The Booking Health Difference: Support Every Step of the Way
Ekaterina's experience was greatly enhanced by the support provided by Booking Health. From the moment she arrived in Germany, she was assisted by a team of dedicated professionals, including translators who went above and beyond their duties.
Her experience with translator Elena Fabricius was particularly touching. "I have read reviews about her. But I thought this can't be real. This person puts herself last, probably after all the patients. You can call her 24 hours a day. She puts the phone on speaker and she's always ready to see to my needs." Ekaterina remembers one particularly moving moment: "When doctors needed to make a blood test, because of my disease and all the procedures, I had very bad veins. It was difficult to draw blood, and it is such an unpleasant procedure. And Elena was sitting next to me, I saw that her hands were just trembling. She was so worried about me, although she sees it every day from morning to evening."
The language support proved invaluable. "In the hospital, my knowledge of English did not help. I thought, why do I need an interpreter if I am fluent in English? And in Germany, professors speak English. But before you get to the professors, you need to go through the entrance, the reception. Even in the dining room, cash desk, and nurses – no one speaks a word of English at all. Therefore, without an interpreter, we would simply be lost there."
This level of support extended to every aspect of her treatment, from navigating the hospital to communicating with doctors and handling paperwork.
A New Chapter: Life After Recovery
Today, Ekaterina is cancer-free and embracing life with renewed vigor. Her hair, once lost to chemotherapy, has grown back curly. She's been on vacation with her now 3.5-year-old son and is planning her wedding.
"You need to learn to appreciate the simple things that happen to you every day," Ekaterina reflects. "When I received chemo, I felt so bad... every day when I woke up, I opened my eyes, I was like – wow! – I didn't die, I woke up. The sun is shining! Cool!"
The experience has left her with lasting relationships. "We had a great experience and still keep in touch with everyone from Booking Health who worked with me," she shares. "These are people who really, sincerely wanted to help, they are just in the right place."
A Message of Hope
For those facing similar health challenges and considering treatment abroad, Ekaterina's advice is clear: "Don't think, just do. Because your journey begins not when you decide, but when you take the first step."
Looking back at her experience at University Hospital Rechts der Isar Munich, she concludes with conviction, "Everything is just the best treatment you will ever get." Her story stands as a testament to the life-changing impact of seeking quality medical care abroad. It highlights the importance of early diagnosis, the value of personalized support, and the hope that comes with access to world-class medical facilities and expertise.
Through Booking Health, patients like Ekaterina can find not just medical treatment, but a comprehensive support system that guides them through every step of their healing journey. As Ekaterina's experience shows, the decision to seek treatment abroad can be the first step towards a healthier, happier future.
If you or your loved ones are facing a similar diagnosis, Booking Health is ready to organize your treatment abroad. Our services include:
- Selection of the most suitable clinic and experienced oncologists
- Appointment scheduling within the shortest possible time
- Assistance with medical visa and travel arrangements
- Personal medical coordinator and interpreter
- 24/7 support during your stay abroad
- Favorable costs with no hidden fees
- Follow-up support after treatment
Contact Booking Health today to learn about treatment opportunities in leading German clinics. Our team has years of experience in organizing complex oncological treatments abroad and will support you at every step of your journey to recovery.
