Patient Experience

Michael Barnas

Michael Barnas knows a thing or two about being a tough guy. He works construction by day and rides motorcycles in his free time. So when Michael’s doctors told him that he had bladder cancer, he faced the news head-on with courage.

This resilient 55-year-old’s battle with cancer began when he started urinating frequently and passing blood clots during a cross-country motorcycle trek. He returned home and immediately visited his primary care physician, a Loyola graduate. The physician determined that Michael had cancer and referred him to specialists at Loyola University Health System.

Loyola physicians diagnosed Michael with an aggressive form of bladder cancer that had spread to the muscle lining of the organ. Given his diagnosis, Michael underwent surgery to remove his bladder and prostate in December 2007. Physicians gave him a replacement bladder made from his own tissue. The surgery was successful, and Michael soon learned that he was cancer-free with no need for chemotherapy or radiation.

“The best Christmas gift I ever received was the news that I was free of this disease with no need for further treatment,” said Michael. “I am so grateful for the care I received at Loyola. It allowed me to start the new year on the road to recovery.”

Michael was back to work by the end of January 2008. Despite the fact that he lives in Cary, Ill., he says that it was well worth the nearly 80-mile round trip car ride to receive care at Loyola. He now returns for checkups every six months.

“I was so pleased with everyone, from the housekeeping staff to the physicians and nurses,” added Michael. “There were times that I felt like giving up after my diagnosis; however, the staff at Loyola helped me press on and maintain a positive attitude.”