Patient Login and Florida Cancer Specialists Reviews

Her warrior spirit and an expert and caring Florida Cancer Specialists team that greeted her like family each day, helped Amy Rodriguez beat breast cancer. After a long and demanding year-and-a-half of treatment, Rodriguez is grateful for the chance to keep serving her community and country as a member of the Army National Guard, and to continue raising her son and watching him grow up.

In 2003, Anne was diagnosed with Myelodysplasia 5q-, a rare bone marrow disorder that affects the development of red blood cells, often leading to anemia and enlarged red blood cells. At that time, her care provider told her she likely only had 5 years to live. Fortunately, through a support group, she learned of a clinical trial offered by Gustavo A. Fonseca, MD, FACP, medical oncologist and hematologist at Florida Cancer Specialists & Research Institute, and was able to enroll. Now, 20 years later, she recalls the many milestones she’s experienced since her diagnosis and extends her gratitude to Dr. Fonseca, her FCS care team, and above all, the clinical trial that saved her life.

After being diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer, Brian Belcastro was told he’d need an intensive radiation treatment spanning across nine weeks. After seeking another opinion, he found Dr. Luis Carrascosa at Florida Cancer Specialists’ Ocala Cancer Center, who was able to treat him in 5 sessions. Now, after completing his treatment without side effects, Brian that sharing his experience will encourage other men to get screened and treated if necessary.

A diagnosis of stage 3 rectal cancer was a jarring blow to professional boxer, kickboxer and stunt woman Bridgett Riley. At Florida Cancer Specialists she was able to receive the comprehensive care she needed, close to home. Brittney credits her FCS team for providing her the expertise, love, patience and hope she needed to win her cancer fight.

Following a breast cancer diagnosis in 2011, Dana McCool found herself in a vulnerable position as she was uninsured at the time. After many calls to hospitals, she reached out to Florida Cancer Specialists, where she was helped regain insurance, and received quality care. In 2023, Dana was diagnosed with stage four bone cancer and is currently receiving care from FCS Medical Oncologist/Hematologist Victor W. Melgen, MD.

FCS patient and three-time cancer fighter Don Dewitt understands the importance of excellent healthcare. As a former hospital administrator and emergency medical services personnel, he knew what to look for when he began his cancer treatment journey more than 20 years ago. Recently, Don sat down with medical oncologist and hematologist Dr. Raymond Esper to recall their journey together and share his appreciation for the quality care he received from Dr. Esper and his FCS care team.