Former President of the Hellenic Women’s Federation of Victoria, Sofia Mastoris OAM was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer about a year ago, at the same time her breast cancer returned for a third time.
Sofia met with Mr Russell Hodgson, Hepatitis-Pancreatico-Biliary specialist and general surgeon at Northern Hospital, a number of times prior to the surgery. She described him as kind and knowledgeable.
Sofia was diagnosed with breast cancer and undertook a number of tests. More lumps were found upon testing and Mr Hodgson informed her that surgery represented her best chance of survival. After careful consideration, they both agreed to this approach.
Sofia was scheduled to have surgery during Holy Week this year but postponed the surgery. She felt nervous right up until the day of the surgery. The surgery ended up taking place on 15 May 2024 and Sofia spent two weeks recuperating.
Mr Hodgson said, “Sofia recovered from her operation far quicker than we thought likely, given her age.”
Sofia added, “I believed the operation would be successful and that I would open my eyes at the other end. The first thing I saw when I did open my eyes, was Mr Hodgson.”
Sofia has been told she’s the oldest patient at Northern Health to have this surgery. She is now home and on the road to making a full recovery. Sofia wanted to make this story known to express her deep gratitude for Mr Hodgson and his team for the skill, dedication, and compassionate care provided. She also said having skilled medical professionals in healthcare is an important issue to highlight.
Sofia is hopeful for the future and her appreciation for being given another chance at life.
Mr Hodgson said, “Pancreatic cancer is often difficult to treat and sometime the only chance of cure is a long and dangerous operation, that needs a lot of dedicated people throughout the hospital. For some people, surgery is not an option, or thought to be dangerous. Throughout Sofia’s decision to have surgery and her admission to Northern Health, she was fantastic to work with and had a lot of admirers from all the different people who met her. I have enjoyed my role in looking after Sofia through her decision making and journey and wish her well for the next steps.”
“Anyone who would like to support people like Sofia in their journey with pancreatic cancer, should look at the Northern Health Foundation and Pancare websites,” Mr Hodgson added.
