A Thoughtful Approach to Gynecologic Cancer
Meet Mallory
When Mallory walked into her first appointment with Dr. Pamela Drummond-Ray in January 2026, she was simply establishing care with a new gynecologist. A retired educator and current employee with the county Board of Education, Mallory never imagined that appointment would lead to a cancer diagnosis—and a remarkable journey of care.
A few days after her visit, Mallory noticed unexpected bleeding. Trusting her instincts, she contacted Dr. Drummond-Ray's office. Within days, she had an ultrasound, which showed a polyp in the uterine lining, followed by a biopsy the next week. The results revealed Grade 1, Stage 1 endometrial cancer.
What happened next made all the difference.
"Everything moved so quickly," Mallory recalls.
She was referred to Dr. Stephen Andrews, a gynecologic oncologist, who contacted her within days. Within a week, her surgery was scheduled.
While many women in online support groups shared stories of long waits between diagnosis and treatment, Mallory experienced something very different—timely, coordinated care that helped ease much of the fear and uncertainty that often accompanies a cancer diagnosis.
Mallory underwent a minimally invasive robotic total hysterectomy and returned home the very same day. Just weeks later, she was back to driving and resuming many of her normal activities. Even more encouraging, her pathology report showed the cancer had only invaded about 10% of the uterus. No chemotherapy or radiation was needed, but she will be monitored closely with regular visits for the next five years.
Throughout her journey, Mallory found comfort in the compassionate care she received. She describes both Dr. Drummond-Ray and Dr. Andrews as easy to talk with, very educational and genuinely caring. From the scheduling team to the valet staff, everyone helped her feel welcomed and supported.
Today, Mallory is focused on rebuilding her stamina, returning to work and planning future adventures with friends and family. With three children now in college and a trip to Barbados on the horizon, she is looking forward to the future with gratitude.
"If I could speak to the entire team," she says, "I would simply say, 'Thank you. Bless you. Keep caring for patients the way that you do.'"
Summa Health. All for the better.
