Patient Experience

Diane Capizzi

Diane Capizzi began experiencing back pain after gardening and moving pots in her yard. She shrugged this off as simple aches and pains that come with physical activity. However, when the back pain did not go away and she began having blood in her urine, she assumed she had a urinary tract infection and went to the doctor for an antibiotic. Her physician ran some tests and determined that the aches and pains were much more than a simple urinary tract infection. Diane had bladder cancer.

The 57-year-old Arlington Heights resident was able to make an appointment quickly with Robert Flanigan, MD, professor and chair, Department of Urology, Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine. She had followed Cardinal Francis George’s successful battle with bladder cancer and knew that she wanted to go to Loyola where he had received care. Dr. Flanigan confirmed that Diane had stage III bladder cancer. 

“In my darkest hour, Dr. Flanigan provided a ray of hope that carried me through my surgery, treatment and recovery,” recalled Diane. “He kept comforting me and telling me that I was going to be okay, and he was right.”

In January 2007, Diane underwent surgery to remove her bladder. Dr. Flanigan replaced it with a neobladder, a substitute bladder made from her own tissue. Six weeks following her surgery, she began receiving chemotherapy, which lasted for approximately four months.

“The physicians and nurses were top-of-the-line,” said Diane. “Their compassion and positive attitude pulled me through this very difficult time in my life.”

There was never a moment when Diane felt like her fears were not addressed. She felt that Dr. Flanigan and his specialists really listened to her and answered all of her questions. This mother of two and grandmother of two also leaned heavily on her family.

“My children and grandchildren also were my medicine,” said Diane. “You cannot underestimate the power of a strong support system.”

Soon after her surgery, Diane walked into her physician’s office and jumped up on the exam table.

“You would never know that I had been sick. I followed all of the rules, recovered quickly and was eager to get out and moving again,” Diane said. “My nurses and physicians couldn’t get over how easily I bounced back.”  Today, Diane is cancer-free and doing well. She visits Loyola every three months for follow-up appointments.

“I have nothing but high praise for the care that I received at Loyola. Everyone was truly compassionate,” said Diane. “It was very apparent how they truly treat the human spirit.”

Diane’s experience with cancer has changed her outlook on life and led her to believe that she has a higher calling to help others going through this experience. Through Loyola’s Support Services, patients with bladder cancer frequently call on Diane for encouragement and advice.

“I am truly blessed to be alive. If I can give back and help others who are going through the same thing that I did, my time with cancer will all be worth it.”