Recently, at the age of 60, I underwent surgery to remove both my appendix and gallbladder. Until this experience, I had been fortunate to enjoy excellent health and, like many, took it for granted. That all changed when I met Dr. Christopher Wilson, a general surgeon who, in my book, is nothing short of exceptional. He and his team provided outstanding care, and I’m incredibly grateful for their expertise.
I had always thought appendix issues were something only younger people experienced, but I learned otherwise. It all started with discomfort in my stomach, which I initially dismissed as something I ate. By the next morning, the pain worsened, so I decided to visit Aurora Urgent Care on Brown Deer Road in Milwaukee. There, I was seen by a compassionate nurse practitioner who recommended that I head straight to the ER at St. Luke’s for further evaluation.
At first, I hesitated—I’m self-employed and didn’t have health insurance, so I was worried about the costs. However, the nurse… practitioner’s words stayed with me. He said, “If you were my father, I’d personally take you to the ER.” Touched by his concern, I signed a form acknowledging his advice but initially decided not to go. After discussing it with my wife, who encouraged me to prioritize my health, I decided to follow through.
At the ER, a CT scan confirmed my appendix was inflamed and revealed that my gallbladder was full of gallstones. Dr. Wilson and his nurse practitioner recommended removing both during the same procedure. Initially, I planned to remove only the appendix, thinking I could wait until I qualified for Medicare at 65 to address my gallbladder. However, my wife and the medical team encouraged me to reconsider. When I saw the CT scan showing my gallbladder completely white, I realized it couldn’t wait.
What stood out to me was Dr. Wilson’s approach. He respected my initial hesitation about removing the gallbladder and never pressured me to make a decision. His professionalism and empathy helped me feel confident in choosing the best course of action. Looking back, I realize how fortunate I was to be in his care. His modesty belies his exceptional skills, and I deeply appreciate his expertise.
Dr. Wilson exemplifies the kind of doctor who makes America great—compassionate, talented, and genuinely caring. His nurse practitioner, clearly trained and trusted by him, was equally remarkable. Together, they make an outstanding team.
The care I received at St. Luke’s deserves a 9.5 out of 10, while Dr. Wilson is a perfect 10 in my book. Despite my initial concerns about cost, I’ve worked out a payment plan with Aurora, and all is well. I may have to delay purchasing the car I’d planned on buying next year, but my health is far more important. My granddaughter, who visited me in the hospital, reminded me of that, and I’m so grateful for her and everyone who supported me during this time.
Thank you to Dr. Wilson, his team, and all the wonderful individuals at St. Luke’s who cared for me and my wife. Your dedication means the world to us.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Andrew
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