Doctors catch hidden prostate condition
SEBRING, Fla. – An ER visit at AdventHealth Sebring led occupational therapist Marc Marasigan to a surprising diagnosis and a life-changing treatment.
After arriving with fever and back pain, doctors discovered a kidney stone too large to pass.
During the procedure to break it up, urologist Dr. Ronald Chee-Awai also found an enlarged prostate, a common condition that can cause sleep disruption and urinary problems.
Chee-Awai recommended Aquablation therapy, a minimally invasive, heat-free, robotic treatment that removes excess prostate tissue with precision. Marasigan said the results have been transformative, improving his sleep and bladder function.
He encourages men approaching 50 to prioritize prostate screenings, which can detect serious conditions early.
“Regular prostate evaluations are one of the most effective tools we have for protecting men’s health,” Chee-Awai said. “Prostate cancer often develops silently, without symptoms, but when detected early, it’s highly treatable. These screenings can save lives by catching cancer and other conditions before they become serious. It’s a simple step that can make a life-changing difference.”
Fundraiser benefits Pasco County children’s hospital
TRINITY – Starkey Market is raising money for Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital’s new Pasco County campus through the inaugural Miles That Matter.
The fundraiser takes place from 7:30 to 11 a.m. Jan. 17. It includes a 10K, 5K and 1-mile fun run.
Awards will go to the top three overall winners in each race.
Registered participants will receive a race-day shirt and grab bag. Children younger than 10 get in free. Register at runsignup.com.
Starkey Market will host an after-party where runners can refuel with a free beer and charge up with a charcuterie spread. The market is located at 3460 Starkey Blvd.
Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital’s new Pasco County campus is expected to open in 2027 with 56 inpatient rooms, a 16-room emergency center and four operating rooms.
Hospital has new lung screening tool
LAKE PLACID – AdventHealth Lake Placid has launched a Low Dose Lung Screening CT program, giving patients access to a life-saving tool for detecting lung cancer early.
Lung cancer is the third most common cancer in the U.S. and leads all cancer deaths.
The quick, painless scan can spot cancer at earlier, more treatable stages.
“Early detection saves lives, and advanced imaging technology allows us to see what the eye cannot,” said Casie Miller, imaging manager at AdventHealth Lake Placid. “Every scan is an opportunity to give patients peace of mind and empower them with answers.”
People may qualify for this screening if they’re ages 50 to 80 with a 20-pack-year smoking history, currently smoke or quit within the past 15 years and have no new symptoms.
AdventHealth Sebring also offers certified screenings.
Get answers on Medicare
- PETERSBURG – SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) is a free program offered by the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco & Pinellas.
Specially trained volunteers can assist with Medicare, Medicaid and health insurance questions by providing one-on-one counseling and information.
They’ll answer questions at the following Medicare Basics programs:
- Dec. 18 at 10:30 a.m. at the New River Library, 34043 State Road 54, Wesley Chapel. 813-788-6375
- Dec. 20 at 10 a.m. at the Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Pkwy., Land O’ Lakes. 813-929-1214
SHINE services are free, unbiased and confidential. Counselors do not sell anything. They can be reached by calling 1-800-963-5337 or 727-217-8111.
