Unexpected discovery, lifesaving care for gynecologic cancer

Donna Frandsen, 72, was resuming her daily activities after surgery for pelvic organ prolapse when her journey took an unexpected turn.

What started as a procedure to address a manageable condition revealed a life-changing discovery—Frandsen had ovarian cancer.

Treating pelvic floor prolapse

Prolapse occurs when the pelvic floor muscles weaken, causing the organs to shift. A woman’s chances of developing prolapse increase with pregnancy, vaginal childbirth, menopause, family history/genetics, and smoking, according to Alex Soriano, MD, a urogynecologist and female pelvic reconstructive surgeon.

“Dr. Soriano went over treatment options with me, including pelvic floor physical therapy, an internal support device called a pessary, and surgery,” Frandsen said.

Energetic and healthy, Frandsen was interested in the best long-term outcomes for her prolapse, according to Soriano. “We opted for minimally invasive, robotic-assisted surgery, which offers a reduced risk of prolapse recurrence,” he said. The procedure involved a complete hysterectomy and pelvic floor reconstruction.

“It is important for me to stay healthy and active,” said Frandsen, who moved to Doylestown 11 years ago to care for her mother who is living with Alzheimer’s disease.

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An incidental cancer diagnosis

The robotic approach provided a clear, high-definition view of Frandsen’s organs. As Soriano visually assessed her abdomen and pelvis, he identified a mass on Frandsen’s ovary.

“A mass doesn’t always mean you have cancer,” Soriano said. “We isolate tissue removed during surgery and send it to the lab for testing.” This time, however, cancer cells were detected in Frandsen’s tissue.

Soriano referred her to a gynecologic oncologist.

“He performed a same-day, robotic-assisted procedure in April 2024,” Frandsen said. Her oncologist removed her appendix and 17 lymph nodes from her lower pelvic area as well as part of the protective tissue around her colon. He checked each layer, leaving only healthy tissue behind.

“Though I had to back off visiting my mother for a few days, I felt well and quickly returned to my daily activities,” Frandsen said.

By June, Frandsen was ready to begin chemotherapy under the care of a medical oncologist.

“I feel fortunate that I was able to function and feel well during chemotherapy,” Frandsen said. “Though I did lose my hair.”

Maintaining health

The gynecologic oncologist sent a sample of Frandsen’s tumor for next generation sequencing in order to assess its molecular profile. This information provided a personalized approach for her next step—a maintenance medication to help preserve her stable remission. The medication helps to prevent the growth of blood vessels to tumors because cancer cells are less likely to survive without a blood supply.

Frandsen is well aware that ovarian cancer is known for its silent progression. “If I had not opted for the robotic-assisted surgery, my cancer would have likely remained hidden until I had symptoms,” she said. By then, her cancer would have reached a more critical stage.

“I’m thankful for the support and many prayers from my family and friends. I appreciate that I received care close to home and grateful that Dr. Soriano found my cancer,” she said.

Frandsen appreciates the relationships she has with her team of providers. "At Doylestown Health, I have doctors I can talk to. My providers there answer my questions and deliver my care with professionalism, humor, and knowledge.”

“I know every time I go for a CT scan moving forward, something can show up,” she said. “But I see my unexpected diagnosis as a good thing. I believe that whatever is meant to happen will happen.”

Frandsen collects antiques and loves to travel. She also enjoys time with friends and family at the Jersey Shore. Now that her treatment is complete, she’s looking forward to planning her next adventure.