Gratitude through joy and challenge

William Bridges was born at Baptist Health, as were his children, grandchildren and even his newborn great-grandchild.

Baptist Health Lexington has long been a reliable presence during joyful times in his family, but also during challenging times, like his cancer diagnosis.

“I would like to express sincere appreciation for the entire staff for making a somewhat difficult situation a very positive experience,” says William. He recently underwent five rounds of treatment at Baptist Health Lexington using a piece of equipment purchased through donor support — the CyberKnife®. This robotic approach to radiation therapy successfully treated his cancer without debilitating side effects — and for that, he is grateful.

“They took a very negative situation and turned it into what I thought was a very positive experience, and I’m just tickled to be able to share my story,” he says.

Facing cancer was scary, but William immediately felt at ease upon arriving for his first treatment. The Baptist Health Lexington staff was warm and compassionate, he says, and his weekly treatments were efficient. “I mean, one day I was not there 15 minutes. It’s just kind of amazing to not have to wait in the waiting room, to get a treatment of that nature, and then be out of there in 15 minutes!”