Two time cancer survivor grateful for St. Vincent’s care

When Judith began experiencing symptoms that could become life-threatening, she trusted her instincts and went to the emergency department at Ascension St. Vincent’s Clay County in Middleburg, Florida.

A cancer survivor in remission, Judith immediately recognized something was wrong. Imaging revealed that her cancer had returned this time in the back of her brain. The tumor, about the size of a baseball, was causing significant swelling and a buildup of spinal fluid that required urgent medical attention.

To receive specialized neurosurgical care, Judith was transferred to Ascension St. Vincent’s Spine & Brain Neurosurgery – Riverside, whereDr. Aristotelis Filippidis, MD, PhD, a neurosurgeon specializing in brain tumors, led her treatment.

“The first and most important step to protect her brain and save her life,” Dr. Filippidis explained, “was to relieve the pressure by placing a special drainage tube to remove the excess fluid.”

Once Judith’s condition stabilized after this first life-saving procedure, Dr. Filippidis subsequently performed a second, complex brain surgery to safely remove the entire tumor.

AtAscension St. Vincent’s Spine & Brain Neurosurgery – Riverside, our neuroscience specialists use advanced technology—including PET, MRI, 3D brain imaging, Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (LITT), and nerve mapping—to diagnose and treat complex brain and spine conditions. Postoperative imaging confirmed that the tumor had been completely removed and that Judith’s brain fluid was flowing normally again.

“When we operate on the brain, it’s not just about removing disease. It’s about carefully preserving function, balance, and the patient’s sense of self,” Dr. Filippidis reflected. “Every step is guided by detailed planning, advanced technology, precision, and empathy. Both of Judith’s procedures were successful, and we’re honored she trusted us with her care.”

Following surgery, Judith continued her recovery at the Ascension St. Vincent’s South Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility (IRF), where therapists and nurses helped her regain strength and independence.

“My stay was great,” Judith said. “Everyone worked together as a team, and their kindness made my recovery easier.”

Judith expressed deep appreciation for the coordinated care she received at every stage of her journey from the emergency team to Dr. Filippidis and the rehabilitation specialists. “I would like to recognize therapists Marissa and Casey for their knowledge, and nurses KJ and Joan for their kindness and support,” she said.

Now, with her recovery progressing well, Judith is grateful for the brain and spine care that gave her hope and for the compassionate team that helped her heal.

“Cancer care is a team effort, and great outcomes are always considered team victories,” shared Dr. Filippidis.

When you choose Ascension St. Vincent’s Spine & Brain Neurosurgery – Riverside for your brain and spine care, you are connected to specialists in neurology, neurosurgery, pharmacy, imaging, rehabilitation, and more. Your specialists work together as one team dedicated to your care. We connect the dots between specialties, so you don’t have to.

Don’t delay care. Schedule an appointment or get a second opinion with Dr. Filippidis.