Man grateful for life-saving surgery

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) - Jerome Provost of Springfield cannot thank Dr. Kelly Tyler enough for removing the cancer detected by a colonoscopy.

Colo-Rectal Cancer is very common. Dr. Tyler told 22News that one out of 12 people get that cancer during their lifetime.

“When someone comes into my office and I know they're scared and overwhelmed, It's not only performing a technical surgery and getting them well, but it's also helping that person through the whole process that's one of the most scary things in their life,” said Tyler, who is director of Colo-Rectal surgery at Baystate Medical Center.

Provost has learned much from his ordeal. And he shares that lifesaving information that Dr. Tyler has given him with those who are closest to him. “I've found out that it's very hereditary. Between friends and siblings, my cousin has gone down to get checked, my daughter has gone down to get checked; recommended it to all my family members,” he said.

His message during Colo-Rectal Cancer awareness month to not be scared, and to not put off undergoing a colonoscopy. Provost will always be grateful that he underwent the test, and is now free of cancer.