When Olga Weinstein was due for a colonoscopy in April of 2023, she decided that while she was under anesthesia, she’d also get an endoscopy as a precaution. As a healthy and active woman in her 60s with no unusual symptoms, she didn’t have any concerns. But during the procedure, the doctor found an ulcer in her stomach, and test results later revealed that cancer cells were present. “I was very shocked, but being the person that I am, I started researching where I should have my treatment done,” Olga says. “The name Dr. Kfir Ben-David at Mount Sinai kept coming up. A friend of mine’s husband was also treated by him. I knew I wouldn’t go anywhere else.”

Her choice was further solidified during her initial meeting with Dr. Ben-David, Roni Jacobson Endowed Chairman of Surgery and General Surgery Program Director at Mount Sinai’s Comprehensive Cancer Center, to discuss a treatment plan. “He’s not only a good surgeon, but a good human. I was pleased with how warm he was, and I felt like he was talking to me as if I were a family member,” Olga says, adding, “I also saw my oncologist, Dr. Aron Simkins, and had the exact same feeling. The whole treatment team was extremely kind, and they are all very accomplished.”

The Miami Beach resident feels fortunate that the cancer was caught in its very early stages, thanks to the elective endoscopy procedure. She says her husband and son were a constant support during chemotherapy and surgery, and that her husband joined her at every appointment. “It’s not just the surgery or treatments; it’s the emotional stress that can wear you down,” Olga says. “I believe because I had a supportive family and team at Mount Sinai, that was crucial to my recovery.” She also encourages patients to know how best to get in touch with their providers and praises her team’s availability and immediate responses to her calls or needs. “Mount Sinai’s team is a well-oiled machine. They have meetings once a week and discuss their patients with other physicians, to get opinions from well-accomplished doctors.”

While Olga kept her diagnosis and treatment mostly private, she felt compelled to share her story in hopes that it could help others. “The reason that I’m sharing this story is because I was treated so well. Mount Sinai is, in my opinion, the best cancer center to go to in this area,” she says, while advising other cancer patients to trust and listen to the doctors. “They have your back, and they really want you to get better. You’re not a number to them.”

Dr. Kfir Ben-David, Roni Jacobson Endowed Chairman of Surgery at Mount Sinai Medical Center, infuses heartfelt care into every aspect of cancer treatment. “Treating each patient like family is the cornerstone of my approach,” Dr. Ben-David shares. This philosophy enriches the patient-doctor relationship with trust and respect, crucial for navigating the intricate paths of cancer care.

Dr. Ben-David, who specializes in esophageal and gastric cancers, advocates for treatments tailored to the unique needs of each patient. “No two cancer cases are the same. All patients, like Olga, require a thoughtful and personalized strategy that integrates all aspects of their life and health,” he explains.

The Irma and Norman Braman Comprehensive Cancer Center is set to further these efforts, offering a place where different specialties converge to provide seamless, holistic care. “The center will enhance not just the treatment but the overall well-being of our patients,” Dr. Ben-David anticipates.

By focusing on both the medical and emotional needs of his patients, Dr. Ben-David ensures that every individual feels supported and valued throughout their journey to recovery.