Emergency Surgery Saves Waverly Resident’s Life

Bruce Gipple of Waverly spent several months suffering from constant stomach pain and reflux. His pain was so severe that he had visited several area emergency departments. On a particularly painful day, Bruce decided to go to the Waverly Health Center (WHC) emergency department (ED). This was his first visit to WHC’s ED and he and his wife were ready for answers.  

By the time Bruce visited WHC, his undiagnosed illness was not only causing him pain, but he had lost 45 pounds over several weeks. “On a scale of one to ten, the pain I was experiencing was at least a 12,” Bruce recalled. Bruce was admitted to the medical/surgical floor at WHC where he received a visit from Dr. Matt Glascock, an advanced laparoscopic surgeon with WHC’s General Surgery Clinic.

After looking over Bruce’s history and examining him, Dr. Glascock noted the seriousness of the situation. Several years ago, Bruce had four hernias repaired. The mesh surrounding the hernias had pulled apart and was causing a blockage in his digestive track. Dr. Glascock told Bruce that he needed surgery immediately.

After Dr. Glascock repaired the hernias, Bruce spent 13 days in the hospital recovering. He was put on a restrictive diet to allow healing. Bruce gave credit to many nurses who cared for him and kept him company during the long days of recovery. “Describing my time at Waverly Health Center as a ‘great experience’ is an understatement,” he said.

Bruce and Nancy are so grateful for the quick and life-saving actions taken by Dr. Glascock and his team. “Dr. Glascock saved my life,” Bruce expressed. “We’ve spread the word and told everyone about our great experience at Waverly Health Center.”