How Gerald Recovered from Colon Cancer with Covenant Health Roane 

When Gerald Smith met his surgeon, the conversation wasn’t just about medical charts; it was about fly fishing. That simple connection built trust for a life-saving surgery and a journey that ended with Gerald ringing the cancer bell, a tradition that celebrates being cancer-free.  

A Life of Health, Interrupted 

Gerald, 77, is a retired electrician, Air Force veteran, and lifelong outdoorsman from East Tennessee. He had always considered himself healthy and resilient. But one small sign changed everything: blood in his stool. Concerned, Gerald scheduled a colonoscopy. What started as a routine screening turned into a fight against stage III colon cancer.   

The first colonoscopy revealed a blockage. After a second procedure, Leonard Copertino, MD, Covenant Health Roane general surgeon, explained that surgery was necessary. Gerald recalls, “He told me, ‘You have to trust your surgeon. If you’re not comfortable, I’ll help you find someone else.’” That honesty—and their connection through a shared love of fly fishing—sealed Gerald’s decision. “Any fly fisher is a friend to me,” he said. 

A Surgeon’s Skill, a Patient’s Determination 

Gerald’s surgery was performed using a laparoscopic approach, designed to minimize large incisions while ensuring the best possible outcome and speeding recovery. His colon was removed through the smallest incision necessary, and along with it, 29 lymph nodes were taken for pathology. Collecting and analyzing lymph nodes is how surgeons accurately determine the stage of colon cancer. 

Gerald was mentally prepared for the surgery, and his determination didn’t stop there. “I walked 18 laps that night after surgery. I wanted to go home,” he laughed. His commitment paid off, and he was discharged in less than 24 hours, setting a record for his surgeon. 

“Gerald was a phenomenal patient. He was very serious about his care and followed our guidelines to support his quick recovery,” said Dr. Copertino. 

The Fight Against Cancer  

After reviewing his biopsies under the microscope, pathology confirmed stage III colon cancer. Gerald began an intensive nine-week program of chemotherapy. Even through the hardest days, Gerald remained positive: “Even through the worst of it, I’ve enjoyed meeting new people. I’ve always been lucky.”  

Nine weeks later, his follow-up scans showed no signs of cancer. Gerald was excited to ring the celebratory cancer-free bell, calling it “emotional and life changing.” He admits, “I’ve been cut, stabbed, and even shot before, but I never cried until this. It makes you value life and stay on course.” 

Back to Health and What Matters Most 

Today, Gerald is back to his normal routine. He’s staying active, managing his rental properties, enjoying time on the front porch with his wife, and preparing for his grandson’s wedding. He reflects, “I’ve traveled all over the world and couldn’t have received better care anywhere else.” 

He’s proud of his local hospital: “People need to know this is a valuable resource. You don’t want it to close. You need to support your local hospital.” 

His advice? “Don’t wait. Get your screenings. You’re worth more than putting it off.” 

Colonoscopies Save Lives: Schedule Yours Today 

Don’t wait to take charge of your health. Covenant Health is your partner in cancer prevention, treatment, and recovery. From advanced screenings like colonoscopies to expert surgical care, chemotherapy, and ongoing support, we provide comprehensive cancer services close to home. 

Schedule your colonoscopy today and learn more about our cancer care services.