Patient Stories Articles

Gonzales woman overcomes rectal cancer with fighting spirit, family support and finding care close to home

In some ways, Alison Teal wasn’t shocked when she learned she had Stage 3 rectal cancer in the summer of 2022. Both of Teal’s parents, as well as two brothers, had gone through their own bouts with various forms of the disease. Teal always had a nagging feeling she...

Geaux Hero: Kendall’s Journey from Cancer Diagnosis to Advocacy

For Kendall Stephens, Spanish Town isn’t just a parade — it’s family. The pink flamingo-filled streets, the quirky, beloved Mardi Gras parade and the tight-knit community that rallies around one another became her lifeline when she needed it most. When Kendall was...

Faith’s Journey: From NICU to Thriving

The Berken home in Lake Arthur is filled with love and activity. Although the oldest of the six Berken children have moved out, the entire family is together often for celebrations, meals and activities. In the midst of it all is the youngest, Faith, who will turn 10...

Geaux Hero: Exceptional Care Saved Liam’s Life

When Liam Joshua started daycare in January, his family never imagined they'd soon face a nightmare. Within weeks, the 18-month-old was battling a severe illness that escalated rapidly, landing him in the ICU at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital. What began as...