Veteran Says Cancer Care At VA Got Him To His Daughter’s Wedding | VA Oklahoma City Health Care

Mark Denney’s journey from being a dedicated physician assistant to becoming a patient himself is a poignant reminder of the challenges and triumphs faced by veterans navigating health issues. As a veteran and healthcare provider, Denney’s experience at the Oklahoma City VA Health Care System sheds light on the transformative power of specialized medical care and the deep bonds formed in the process.

### A Lifetime of Service

Mark Denney’s service in the U.S. Army from 1986 to 1991 was marked by significant contributions as an operating room technician. His role at a trauma hospital in El Paso and his three-year experience in Berlin have been pivotal in shaping his dedication to healing others. Transitioning to civilian life, Denney continued his passion for healthcare by becoming a physician assistant and joined the Oklahoma City VA in 2015, where he uses his skills to support fellow veterans.

### The Pain that Wouldn’t Quit

In December 2019, Denney experienced a persistent pain stretching from his jaw to his ear. Initially misdiagnosed as a dental or ear infection, the pain evolved into a debilitating condition that impeded his ability to swallow and impacted his overall health. A subsequent biopsy brought devastating news: he had cancer at the base of his tongue, which had metastasized to nearby lymph nodes. This diagnosis, as Denney described, was “a punch in the gut.”

### Treatment and Trust

Denney’s treatment journey at the Oklahoma City VA Medical Center involved 35 sessions of radiation therapy and three rounds of chemotherapy. Each session utilized advanced technology, including a linear accelerator. This machine enabled precise delivery of radiation to his tumor while sparing healthy surrounding structures, demonstrating the exceptional capability of the center.

“Using detailed imaging, we can customize the radiation beam,” said Ashley Arres, chief radiation therapist. This level of care, combined with the compassionate support of his medical team, made a significant difference during his battle with cancer. Despite enduring painful treatments and losing 60 pounds, the consistent support from his medical team fostered a familial environment that kept him motivated.

### A Reason to Keep Going

What drove Denney through the grueling process of treatment was particularly moving: the desire to walk his daughter down the aisle. The thought of missing this milestone made the hardship bearable. After enduring treatment, Denney triumphantly rang the bell signifying the end of his cancer treatment. A year and a half later, amidst the joyous atmosphere of his daughter’s wedding, Denney had the honor of walking her down the aisle, with Dr. Teresa Craig, his radiation oncologist, in attendance.

### Back to Work with a New Perspective

Having successfully navigated his treatment, Denney returned to his role at the Oklahoma City VA. His experience as a patient has given him newfound insight into the mental and emotional hurdles veterans face during recovery. He is now more empathetic toward the fears and anxieties his patients might be experiencing, drawing from his own journey to provide compassionate care.

“I knew I’d get good care here. Going through it myself, I saw how much everyone here cares,” Denney remarked, reflecting on his dual perspective as both a provider and a patient.

### Conclusion

Mark Denney’s story encapsulates the challenges faced by veterans in managing their health, while also illustrating the profound impact of the VA’s cancer care initiatives. The Oklahoma City VA Health Care System offers a comprehensive approach to cancer treatment, emphasizing not only advanced medical technologies but also the invaluable human connections that form within this community.

By providing tailored care and fostering a supportive environment, this facility exemplifies the ideal of holistic veteran care. As Denney continues his work in the VA, his journey serves as an inspiring testament to resilience, the importance of compassionate medical treatment, and the enduring bonds formed within the veteran community.

### SEO Considerations

In crafting this article, emphasis was placed on keywords such as “Oklahoma City VA Health Care,” “veteran cancer care,” and “Mark Denney” to ensure optimal search engine visibility. The narrative approach, combined with factual accountings of Denney’s treatments, engages the reader while providing a valuable resource for those seeking information on VA cancer care services and the emotional impacts of such experiences. By focusing on personal anecdotes alongside medical details, this article aims to resonate with both veterans and their families navigating similar situations.

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