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As told by Frank Aberger, MD
 When I was in high school, my dad was diagnosed with early colon carcinoma (cancer) when he was in his forties. Fortunately, his life was saved after the cancer was surgically removed. Ever since then, I knew I wanted to be a gastroenterologist. Fast forward a few years and I indeed fulfilled my dream of being a gastroenterologist, and was fortunate enough to be section chief of Gastroenterology at Gundersen Lutheran.
The time came for me to have my first colonoscopy—an important screening procedure for cancer of the colon and rectum. As a physician, a gastroenterologist and the son of a cancer survivor, I was keenly aware of the potentially life-saving benefits of colonoscopies. But for some reason, I had never envisioned having a colonoscopy done myself.
At first, even I, a board-certified gastroenterologist, was reluctant to undergo the exam. As the section chief for the Gastroenterology department, I was reluctant to bare my soul—among other things—to my staff. Although I have heard of some endoscopists who have done self-colonoscopy, I decided this would be most awkward and was not for me. So, I reluctantly consented to allow my staff to “have the honor.”
The day before my colonoscopy, as I kept drinking, and drinking…and drinking the prep solution, I had to admit to my wife, Jenny, “I can’t believe I make my patients do this!” Fortunately, the preps have seemed easier to me over the years (to date I’ve had three colonoscopies at Gundersen Lutheran). I suppose I shouldn’t say this, but the prep is far and away the worst part of the exam. The procedures themselves have always been painless. I am thankful I have had them done considering my family history. I strongly encourage anyone with a family history to have the screening.
In my job as section chief, I routinely heard glowing compliments about the GI Lab staff. From a patient’s perspective, I personally experienced their outstanding care and can tell you all the accolades they receive are justified. They are extremely professional, empathetic, hard working and efficient. I am proud to call myself part of their team.
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