Lee Sheets

When Melissa “Lee” Sheets had a hysterectomy in 2014, she assumed the surgery would eliminate the possibility of gynecological cancer. Five years later, however, a routine colonoscopy was the first step toward diagnosing primary peritoneal carcinoma.

The retired teacher sought care at Baptist Health, where she says, “There are no adequate words to express my appreciation and gratitude for the expertise, kindness and depth of support that surrounded me.”

In particular, Lee is grateful for Hope Cottrill, MD, a gynecological oncologist at Baptist Health Lexington. “Dr. Cottrill is an amazing doctor, no questions are ever too small, and she always seems to have the right answers,” she says. “Her office staff — from triage to scheduling — works tirelessly to improve the lives of their patients.”

Exploratory surgery determined Lee had stage 3 cancer, and she underwent six rounds of chemotherapy followed by hormone therapy. “What I lost was my hair, brows and lashes, but never my fight or spirit,” says Lee, who proudly proclaims herself a cancer survivor and an advocate dedicated to helping others facing cancer.

“I smile because I believe God gave me this unexpected journey as a lesson. As they say: When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade.”

There are no adequate words to express my appreciation and gratitude for the expertise, kindness and depth of support, that surrounded me.