After Cancer: How Hyperbaric Therapy Helped Bob Heal

For more than 25 years, the treatment that saved Bob Wall’s life quietly left its mark.

After surviving Stage IV tonsil cancer in 1999, Bob believed his toughest battle was behind him. But decades later, radiation damage to his jaw created a serious new challenge, one that required  hyperbaric oxygen therapy and months of treatment.

The care he needed was available through Cumberland Medical Center’s Hyperbaric Medicine and Wound Center, part of Covenant Health.

A Survivor’s New Challenge

At 78, Bob has faced plenty of challenges. A proud Air Force veteran, he and his wife of more than 40 years, Rhonda, enjoy retirement in Fairfield Glade.

In 1999, what Bob thought were allergy symptoms turned out to be Stage IV tonsil cancer that had spread to nearby lymph nodes. Treatment involved surgery to remove one tonsil, chemotherapy and seven weeks of radiation.

More than two decades later, Bob developed a serious jaw wound related to his previous radiation treatments. Radiation can sometimes affect blood flow and healing long after cancer treatment ends. His care team recommended hyperbaric oxygen therapy to promote healing and prepare him for additional treatment.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a specialized treatment that delivers 100% oxygen in a pressurized environment. The increased oxygen helps support blood flow and tissue repair, making it an effective option for some patients experiencing delayed effects of radiation.

Finding Advanced Care Close to Home

Bob’s journey to the Wound Center began with a referral from his primary care physician, John Lewis, DO, of Covenant Medical Group in Crossville.

Rhonda was relieved to learn that advanced hyperbaric oxygen therapy was available close to home.

“I was so thankful to learn this service was available locally,” Rhonda said. “When you’re dealing with something this complex, knowing you have access to advanced care gives you peace of mind.”

Bob’s treatment plan began with 30 hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions. After careful evaluation by his care team, an additional 30 sessions were approved, bringing his total to 60 treatments over several months.

“When you’re receiving treatment five days a week for months, being able to stay near home makes all the difference,” Rhonda said. “If we had needed to travel to Knoxville every day, I honestly don’t know how we would have managed it.”

Care That Feels Like Family

While technology played an important role in Bob’s recovery, it was the people who left the greatest impression.

“Bob says the staff needs to wear angel wings,” Rhonda said with a laugh.

Over the course of more than 60 treatments, Bob came to appreciate the entire hyperbaric team. His connection to the Wound Center began years earlier when he was treated there for a spider bite above his right ankle.

During his recent hyperbaric treatment, he specifically recognized Kim, Robbie and Tonya for the exceptional care they provided, along with the encouragement and support of Teresa throughout his journey.

“That’s when I realized what a great team works at the center,” Bob said. “They’re some of the best.”

Advanced Healing, Exceptional Outcomes

Among those who made a lasting impact were Teresa Clouse, RN and Robbie Smith, APN, who guided Bob throughout his treatment.

“Bob’s case is an excellent example of the benefits that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can provide for carefully selected patients,” Smith said. “We are proud to offer advanced wound care and hyperbaric medicine services so patients can receive specialized care without leaving their community.”

 Bob’s care involved providers across Covenant Health, beginning with his primary care referral and continuing through specialized treatment at Cumberland Medical Center.

A Message of Hope

Today, Bob continues moving forward with the same strength and determination that carried him through cancer treatment more than 25 years ago.

Looking back, Rhonda hopes others facing complex wound care needs know they don’t have to travel far to find exceptional care.

“The technology is here. The expertise is here. Most importantly, the people are here,” Rhonda said. “The care is exceptional.”

Learn More

Not all wounds heal on their own. If you or a loved one is living with a chronic or non-healing wound, specialized care may help. Learn more about hyperbaric medicine and wound care services at Cumberland Medical Center’s Hyperbaric Medicine and Wound Center or talk with your primary care provider about whether a referral is appropriate.