Defeating cancer in Pottsville with a smile

“All the tears in the world weren’t going to change the fact that I had cancer,” says Beth Koropchak. This spunky 65-year-old from Pottsville was diagnosed with breast cancer in late 2017.

Determined as she was, there were days she when she could barely leave her house. “I knew the nausea was coming, I knew I’d lose my hair, but you just can’t anticipate that feeling.” During the hardest months she relied on her sense of humor and the dedicated team at Geisinger, especially hematologist Jose Castillo, MD. “When I woke up in the middle of the night with a 104-degree fever, I called Dr. Castillo. I was so scared and I knew he’d take care of me.” Her final round of radiation is finished — and Beth feels better than ever. She believes there is nothing she can’t conquer with a strong support team, a smile and a really good wig. “I bought this bright blonde one with dark roots,” she laughs. “It looks like I need a touch-up, so everyone assumes my hair is back.”
 
Dr. Jose Castillo provides care for patients at Geisinger Cancer Services in Pottsville.

For a referral to Dr. Castillo or another hematologist, call 570-624-4888.