Northwell podcast highlights expert care in saving brain cancer patient

The Island Now
Huntington hospital nurse Donna Tanzi with patient Judy Lukas. (Photo courtesy of Northwell Health)

When a headache sparked a trip to the emergency room, it marked the beginning of a medical odyssey for Judy Lukas. The then 52-year-old mother of two from Commack, eventually underwent successful brain surgery to remove a tumor.

Lukas received a quick diagnosis and quality treatment during her 2015 ordeal, but a crucial element in her progress from patient to brain cancer survivor was the critical care and attention she received from the nurses at Huntington Hospital. Her journey, along with the impact Huntington’s Magnet nursing program made on Lukas’ recovery is the focus of the latest installment of Northwell Health’s podcast series Health Story.

“As part of that commitment to excellence in what is reflected in being a Magnet facility there is that desire to treat any patient – regardless of their background – with the same degree of understanding and openness,” said neurosurgeon Dr. Robert Kerr who operated on Lukas and followed her recovery.

Huntington became the first hospital on Long Island to achieve nursing’s highest honor – Magnet designation – for the fourth time in a row, last spring. Nurse Donna Tanzi, director of nursing education and Huntington’s Magnet project director, was with Lukas every step of the way.

“I’m feeling healthy,” said Lukas, who has returned her to life. “I know that every time I go for a scan that I stated in the right place. I can’t say enough about the care I received.”

Listen to the podcast: To hear the episode, click here.

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