Rachel Hagan
“I appreciate so many moments that have happened with our family and at times consider what a different experience our family could’ve faced, if it had not been for Dr. Neubauer.”
The summer of 2009, my soon to be 3 year old youngest son was being treated for a viral skin issue. At the conclusion of one of his appointments, Dr. Karen Neubauer saw a spot on the back of my left thigh just above my knee as I was leaving the treatment room with my son. She asked how long it had been there likely longer than I could recall. She insisted that I return the next morning to have a biopsy. 10 days after the initial biopsy, she informed me that I would need additional surgery, as the biopsy result was an early stage melanoma. I was in complete shock and went home to research melanoma and became nearly paralyzed with fear. As a young mom with a 3 year old, a 6 year old and a 7 year old the thought of having this form of cancer was terrifying. Surgery was scheduled shortly after. The result from surgery was complete recovery and continued follow-ups and regular skin checks.
I remember when young Adam had that skin condition and I was so embarrassed by his scars, and now we think about that time in 2009 and we are so grateful for those appointments with Dr. Neubauer and her diligence in always watching out for suspicious spots even in the mom of her 3-year-old patient.
In the past 11 years, I can say that I have a strong passion for educating people for sun safety, the dangers of indoor tanning facilities, and making sure that you do not neglect your largest organ. I appreciate so many moments that have happened with our family and at times consider what a different experience our family could’ve faced, if it had not been for Dr. Neubauer.
This summer the 4″ scar on my leg turned 11 and the little boy with the inconvenient looking warts turns 14 this weekend. We have been able to celebrate state championships, graduation, encore theatre performances & more life moments in between and many more in the future.
