"A thank you feels like such a small word for something so big."
Suzanne Castle
When Suzanne Castle was diagnosed with stage 3B ovarian cancer, she knew her journey would be difficult, but she didn't expect to face it alone. Her surgery and treatment came in the midst of the global pandemic when hospital visitors were restricted for the safety of patients. For those facing major surgery or long-term treatment during that time, isolation only amplified the uncertainty.
Surrounded in care
Despite the isolation, Castle never felt abandoned. Her care team at UT Health San Antonio surrounded her with compassion, expert care and hope. Leading her surgical care was Georgia McCann, MD, whose guidance carried her through the most uncertain moments in the hospital.
The doctors, nurses, and even the housekeeping staff — they were all part of it.
After surgery, Castle began several months of chemotherapy. The treatment was long and exhausting, often leaving her drained and weak. She lost her hair and much of her energy but found comfort in the infusion center. There, nurses became familiar faces, offering encouragement and support when her family could not be by her side. Their presence helped Castle maintain a sense of normalcy and hope throughout the hours spent receiving treatment.
Embracing every day
Cancer-free since 2022, she has reclaimed her strength and her hair, a testament to her resilience and the healing power of compassionate care. Grateful for the doctors, nurses and clinical teams who stood by her side, she embraces life as a grandmother, cherishing every moment with her family and making up for the moments they once spent apart.
Her journey didn't end with ovarian cancer. Because she carries a genetic risk of breast cancer — the disease that affected her mother and grandmother, Castle made the proactive decision to have a double mastectomy, once again entrusting UT Health San Antonio with her care, confident in the expertise and compassion of her medical team.
She even attended the Brasser award celebration as a special guest, celebrating expert patient care and the impact of groundbreaking research.
Castle's family has long been connected to The University of Texas System, a legacy she cherishes as a proud alumna. Her late husband worked for the UT System for more than 25 years, and her daughter and grandchildren are now part of that same legacy.
For Castle, gratitude has come full circle — from the expert care that restored her health to the family she is thankful she gets to celebrate with every day.
