It’s been said, “Instead of cursing the darkness, light a candle.” That’s exactly what Fritz Smith did when he was diagnosed with cancer. He used his diagnosis as motivation to start a support group with his doctor and community to educate others on being proactive about checkups.

His journey to keep others healthy started three years ago when, after a checkup in Anguilla, where he lives, his test results were worrisome and meant prostate cancer. He was recommended to Akshay Bhandari, MD, Co-Chief of the Columbia University Division of Urology at Mount Sinai Medical Center. “Dr. Bhandari understood and was committed to taking the time to see me and make me feel more comfortable. I didn’t have to go searching. It made things so much easier.”

At that point, Fritz knew his diagnosis was a calling for something bigger: “I was going to take on the task of being an advocate in Anguilla.” He organized a Zoom session with Dr. Bhandari, where he spoke to up to 200 others about seeking out screenings and treatment early. “My life is trying to raise consciousness, know your status, and get treated early,” Fritz says. He knew Dr. Bhandari was the one to lead the sessions based on his first interaction with him alone. “He was calm and cool and reassuring. He shared different options. He answered my questions honestly and candidly. And then, after 15 minutes, we started talking about our shared love of cricket. That made me feel as though he knew what he was talking about. No stress, he had this. And I felt it,” Fritz says.

Because of that initial conversation, his outlook shifted. Fritz knows cancer happens. He’s lived it. But he also knows that it doesn’t have to consume you. He experienced an easy recovery surrounded by experienced and compassionate doctors and staff. When he recalls his experience, he says he doesn’t remember the pain. “I just remember the interactions with the nurses, the doctor, the entire staff, the good people around me,” he reflects. That positivity carried over to his everyday life, starting the cycle of giving back. “I live life to the fullest, with intention, and enjoy myself. I see people I can impact with my experience. I can let fellas know they don’t have to be stressed. They will be OK.”

That is exactly how he and Dr. Bhandari are bringing the services of Mount Sinai Medical Center to the men of Anguilla. A support group of patients, doctors, nurses, survivors, and family of others who lost their loved ones to cancer meet from time to time to cheer each other on to stay atop their health. For those who are on their cancer journey, he offers this advice: “Follow your doctor’s instructions and just don’t worry. You are in good hands.”

Fritz Smith, from Anguilla, reflects the global reach of Mount Sinai Medical Center’s care. Dr. Akshay Bhandari, who treated Fritz, practiced an approach that transcends geographical boundaries, offering a support system that extends beyond medical treatment. “Fritz’s treatment was part of a broader engagement with his community in Anguilla, emphasizing our commitment to accessible and comprehensive care,” Dr. Bhandari adds.

At Mount Sinai Medical Center, Dr. Bhandari, a urologist renowned for his innovative use of robotic surgery, treats cancer with precision and deep empathy. Inspired by his father’s legacy as a urologist in India, Dr. Bhandari has dedicated his career to improving outcomes for patients with prostate and kidney cancers through less invasive, technologically advanced procedures. “Robotic surgery allows for quicker recoveries and less invasive treatments, fundamentally changing how we approach cancer care,” he explains.

Dr. Bhandari is optimistic about the future of the Irma and Norman Braman Comprehensive Cancer Center, highlighting its potential to bring advanced treatments and research more rapidly to patients. “Having access to the latest research and clinical trials is pivotal for providing top-tier cancer care.”