NBA Hall of Famed Miami Heat legend and American Cancer Society Ambassador — Alonzo Mourning

click here to view the awareness PSA Alonzo Mourning participated in for the American Cancer Society

My grandfather had prostate cancer, and my dad had prostate cancer and a lot of people really don’t know their family history at all because they don’t ask the questions, I was one of those people.

In 2022, I faced a significant health challenge — the diagnosis of stage three prostate cancer. Earlier that year, a conversation at a social event prompted me to commit to regular check-ups with a urologist. At one of these check-ups, a routine screening led to the discovery of elevated PSA levels, which led to a series of tests that alerted my healthcare team to the presence of prostate cancer.

A biopsy confirmed a high-grade cancer diagnosis, next I underwent a PET scan that ultimately showed the cancer was localized. Although it was classified as stage 3, further testing showed the cancer had not spread beyond the prostate capsule.

When I got the call, the doctor said stage three prostate cancer. I was shocked. I wasn’t expecting bad news, because I felt so good. Nevertheless, I scheduled a robotic prostatectomy in March 2024 at the Global Robotics Institute. The best option for me at my age was to remove it, so I had the surgery done. By the grace of God, I’m cancer free because Dr. Vipul Patel was able to remove my prostate successfully.

nba legend and all-star hall of famer — the “BIG O” — oscar robertson

My name is Oscar Robertson, and I’m from Cincinnati, Ohio. I had prostate surgery performed by Dr. Vipul Patel in 2011, and I want everyone to know just how happy and thrilled I am with the outcome. To me, it was a great success. If I could make one recommendation to anyone dealing with prostate problems, it would be this: go see Dr. Patel.

About three months before my diagnosis, something unusual happened. I kept seeing missed calls on my cell phone for nearly two weeks. The calls appeared to be from the doctor who had taken care of me,
my neurologist. After the third time, I called him back and asked what he needed. He told me he had never called me.

I took that as a sign.

I decided to get my prostate checked. My PSA had gone up from 3.9 to 5.3. I didn’t think it was a big jump because I felt no symptoms at all. But after a biopsy, it was confirmed, I had prostate cancer.

When you hear the word “cancer,” the first thought that comes to mind is, “Is this the end?” The doctor told me I could still live for many years, but there were no guarantees. I did what I felt I needed to do: I researched, asked questions, and spoke with doctors I trusted my urologist, the head of radiation oncology in Cincinnati, a specialist who worked with seed implants, and several men who had undergone both robotic and traditional surgery. I wanted to know one thing: who was the best surgeon?

I know that when you say who is the best, to me, I think the more you do – like shooting baskets, the more you shoot the better you get. If I shoot a ball for 10 or 12 years, I'm going to be an expert at it.

Dr. Patel had performed so many of these procedures that, in my mind, there was no doubt. Once I spoke with him, I knew he was the surgeon I needed. He explained everything clearly, what would happen before and after surgery, how long I would be in the hospital, and what recovery would involve. His staff were outstanding, and the teamwork they showed was remarkable. Dr. Patel should be very proud of them.

There are many things in life that aren’t easy to handle. This was one thing I could take care of and I’m grateful that I did. It lifted a heavy load from my mind and from my family’s minds as well.

The procedure itself was easier than I expected, and I am very pleased with how everything turned out. I’m thankful, relieved, and at peace knowing this chapter was handled the right way.

Life on the Other Side — Erik Sandoval

Hearing the words “you have prostate cancer” can stop you cold. I know, because it did exactly that to me. It’s frightening, and there is no pretending otherwise. But what I want you to know right now is this: there is life on the other side of treatment, and it can be a very good one.

My world was turned upside down by my diagnosis in 2024. After careful consideration, I chose to have my prostate removed with the help of Dr. Vipul Patel and his outstanding team. From that moment on, however, the next chapter became mine to write.

I committed myself fully to recovery. I embraced physical therapy, took long walks, improved my diet, and focused on rebuilding my strength, one day at a time. I took the process seriously because I wanted more than survival; I wanted my life back.

Today, a couple of years later, there is no sign of cancer. I am in the best physical shape of my life, confident in my body, and free from the constant weight of worry. It was not always easy, and there were real challenges along the way but keeping your eyes on what is possible, on the life waiting for you, makes all the difference.

If you are facing this diagnosis now, know this: you have something to look forward to.

I am living proof.

A Miracle Along the Way — Jim Koons

In 2021, a good friend noticed something while we were on the golf course. Hole after hole, I had to stop to urinate. He suggested I get checked and recommended his urologist, who had performed
a simple outpatient bladder procedure for him. That conversation turned out to be life changing.

My wife immediately made an appointment, and we went in for a checkup. My PSA was elevated, which led to further testing and then to a biopsy. The results were devastating. My Gleason scores were extremely high, including 8, 9, and 10. I was diagnosed with stage 3, and possibly stage 4, prostate cancer.

At that point, surgery was no longer optional, it was critical. My wife went into action, determined to find the very best surgeon. Once again, my angels appeared. We had a connection with a highly regarded urology specialist at Johns Hopkins, and an appointment was quickly arranged.

Looking back, I can clearly see how many angels guided me along this journey, starting with my friend on the golf course, and especially my wife, who was proactive, tireless, and my constant source of strength
and encouragement.

Another angel soon stepped forward, my executive assistant. Her father had prostate cancer and was treated by Dr. Vipul Patel. She shared how successful the surgery had been and spoke very highly of him. My wife began researching Dr. Patel and consulted her brother, an orthopedic surgeon. After careful vetting, we learned what so many others already knew: Dr. Patel was the best. He had performed more than 15,000 robotic prostate surgeries with extraordinary success.

Miraculously, despite his demanding schedule and the approaching Thanksgiving holiday, we were able to secure an appointment quickly. We flew to Celebration, Florida, and everything moved at what the medical world calls “STAT.” From our first meeting, Dr. Patel and his team impressed us with their confidence, compassion, and professionalism. Within just six weeks, everything had fallen into place.

The surgery was an overwhelming success. The greatest news of all was that the tumor had not spread beyond my prostate, meaning I did not require radiation or chemotherapy. It was hard to believe and another miracle. I spent only one night in the hospital before returning home to continue my recovery.

Because I have always exercised regularly and maintained a healthy lifestyle, my recovery progressed smoothly. As soon as I was cleared from having surgery, I began walking and I walked a lot. I truly believe that movement played a major role in my healing. Within a few weeks, I was back to working out, and after just over two months, I was back on the golf course. I was diligent with my Kegel exercises and faithfully attended physical therapy.

Every follow-up appointment with Dr. Patel and his team was exceptional. At one point, Dr. Patel referred to me as his “miracle patient.” I am honored to call him not only my surgeon, but my friend.

I will be forever grateful to Dr. Vipul Patel for saving my life. My story stands as proof that even in the most critical moments, with the right people, faith, and expertise, there is hope and life beyond prostate cancer.

Combating Cancer and Climbing Mountains — Karim Mella

Dr. Vipul Patel’s 5,000th robotic prostatectomy patient in 2011 at the Global Robotics Institute — Celebration, Florida

I’ve been pretty lucky my whole life, I grew up in the Dominican Republic and since I was eleven, I started going to the mountains.

I’ve traveled around the world. Visited 22 countries. When I came to the United States, I started doing mountaineering and joined the military. So, I’ve been to many places.

I started climbing mountains in South America, Africa, and Alaska. I did Argentina and then I went back to Peru. Part of all this mountain experience was to climb the highest one… Mt. Everest. Once you achieve your goal, you feel like your invincible, you feel like you have conquered the world! But I did not know that I had a bigger mountain to climb.

I never had any symptoms to speak of, but when I came back from Mt. Everest, I had to have medical exam afterwards, and my PSA numbers came in a little high.

I had a biopsy, and it showed cancer. When I first met Dr. Vipul Patel, I was not afraid to admit that I was scared. It was hard to conceive. I was running marathons; I was climbing mountains.  And now I have this. So, do I need to get surgery?  That was a shocking truth to digest.

Ladd D'angelo, ronnie Arnold &
chuck arnold — a familial disease

LADD D'ANGELO: I originally found out I had cancer in June of 2008, when I first found out I thought they had made a mistake. News of my diagnosis circulated throughout my family and reached my niece's husband Ronnie. my niece insisted Ronnie get checked as well and he too found out he had prostate cancer. From there concern in my family grew. At this point I had the robotic surgery and Ronnie was scheduled for the surgery, which prompted Ronnie's Brother Chuck Arnold to get tested as well. Upon testing, Chuck found he too had Prostate Cancer. Upon hearing about their individual findings, the family members shared their research and determined what was the best option. Through my surgery and research, Dr. Patel was discovered. All 3 of us, underwent the robotic surgery with Dr. Patel, and I can say we all are happier for it, and would recommend Dr. Patel and his staff to anyone. It's a unique situation that all 3 of us had prostate cancer so closely together, and we can all say that none of us suffered any ill effects at all.

Tim madgett

At age 45, being a retired fighter pilot, I thought my biggest health problem was my lower back. But after some routine blood work, I received some life changing news. I was diagnoses with prostate cancer. I was otherwise healthy, and this diagnosis made my world come crashing down. My wife, Maria did most of the research and after our urologist recommended conventional surgery, this is the route we thought we would go. Sitting in the waiting room for my appointment, I met someone who had just had conventional surgery and was not a "happy camper". Which prompted us to further research robotic surgery options. This is how we found Dr. Patel, Dr. Patel called my wife personally, and she just couldn't believe she was speaking with him. Even though the procedure seemed relatively new and not yet mainstream. I wanted to do it, and we felt very secure in Dr. Patel and the professionals on his staff. My surgery was on a Monday, the catheter came out Friday. I had lifting restrictions, but that was it. Let's face it, as a man I was concerned about sexual function, but afterwards, I was amazed that not only did the function come back, but at how soon it came back. I say: Come to Dr. Patel. He is the best. His staff is great, the facilities are brand new, and the guy knows what he's doing. I was not that guy I met in that other waiting room. Hear his wife speak on the experience below.

Dr. Richard Franco — the doctor

The night I found out that I had prostate cancer (when I got the biopsy results), I emailed Dr. Patel. Obviously, I had some angst about the whole thing -- even though I am a physician, the idea that you have prostate cancer or cancer of any type was a bit intimidating. So, I emailed him once or twice about various issues, and I think the thing that was most incredible even when I had talked to him a year and a half or two years before, was that I already knew that clearly, he had become a superstar in his field, but he was very accessible and very lovable kind of guy. As a physician I am similar in the sense that I really fall in love with people. I think that is very important that patients feel that their doctor cares.   When I got a little concerned, one of the emails he sent back was remarkable. "You will be fine," he wrote. And that really helped a great deal. When I came over and met him, it was an equally good experience.   Being a physician in my 50s, it was not a question what I would do. I wanted to get the cancer out if possible. We booked surgery and fortunately got it done expeditiously. So, I feel like I had an incredible surgeon, and I was fortunate that my pathology results came out very favorable. He is a great human being, and I feel like I found a friend as well. I hope that we continue the relationship over the years. I have done my best to let people know that. I let patients make choices, but I think that once they met him there would not be much choice.   In fact, I feel that he is the person that everyone should really meet if surgical options are the way to go. I think he is the first person. So, without reservation this is the number-one place I recommend. In fact, I now say don't travel to New York or to Philadelphia or to Baltimore to John Hopkins – go to the Global Robotics Institute. 

In Commemoration of Coach Lou Holtz by Dr. Vipul Patel
January 6, 1937 — March 4, 2026

Our friend, “The Coach” Lou Holtz (1937-2026) was a remarkable leader, cherished patient, dear friend, and passionate advocate for prostate cancer awareness.

He is undoubtedly one of the most influential figures in college football history, Coach Holtz led the University of Notre Dame to an undefeated national championship season in 1988 and built a Hall of Fame coaching career that spanned more than three decades and nearly 250 victories. Known for his unwavering faith, wisdom, and ability to inspire young men both on and off the field, his legacy extends far beyond the game.
To those of us who had the privilege of knowing him personally, he will be remembered not only as a legendary coach, but as a man of character, compassion, and purpose. Our heartfelt condolences are with his family, friends, and all whose lives he touched.”

Our friendship began with his diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer, of which he was very open and honest.  He was a passionate advocate of prostate cancer screening and the benefits of early detection and treatment.  Though we often sat at opposite ends of the table when it came to college football (I being a University of Southern California grad), we had one common identifying mission, to help men be aware of the prevalence of prostate cancer.  We will forever remember our good friend, “The Coach” for his wit, charm and compassion, we thank him for his service as he saved the lives of many men with his call to action, “Get Screened”.

trevor cohn

I found out I had prostate cancer in May of 2009, my annual checkup had a high PSA reading. I had a biopsy and my diagnosis was confirmed. When you are first diagnosed with cancer, it is truly shocking. You always believe it's something that is never going to happen to you, so it came as a huge surprise. I started researching all my options and discovered robotic surgery. Robotic surgery is unknown in Canada, as it is still in the experimental stage. I had lots of reservations about robotic surgery because of this. In Fact, in the beginning it wasn't even an option I considered. I was recommended to Dr. Patel, by a neurosurgeon who is a very close friend of mine. I really trusted his opinion and he told me that Dr. Patel is the absolute best in the United States. The reason I went ahead and did this with Dr. Patel, was because it was less invasive and nerve sparing. There is no question, why Dr. Patel's reputation preceded him. And the fact that he has done so many of these procedures was the deciding factor for me. One week after surgery, it was hard to believe I had surgery. After the 2nd day I was back to walking one mile a day which is unbelievable. I've never done a testimonial for anyone in my life. I'm doing this because I feel it's the very least I can do for Dr. Patel, and Hopefully I can encourage some of the other patients that are facing similar situations. Don't have any reservations whatsoever. I can truly say it was a privilege to be operated on by Dr. Patel. All of the Anxiety and Stress that I had going into this if I can in anyway dispel some of those reservations that other patients may have, I am happy to do it. It truly has been an unbelievable experience and something that I will never forget. 

Alberto Latarowski

I had high levels of antigens for quite some time. My urologist determined a need for a biopsy in February of 2008, and I then received the results by the end of February. It was then I was informed that I had prostate cancer. The urologist advised me to have surgery. I agreed with his recommendation, but there were certain factors I had to consider. Should I have surgery in Uruguay or somewhere else? Uruguay has no robotic procedures available, just laparoscopic procedures, that are conducted by a visiting technician from Argentina. This left me with the option of having conventional surgery. After researching conventional surgery, I found the probability of success regarding nerve preservation, incontinence, and impotence was significantly less. So, I began researching the possibilities of Robotic Prostatectomy abroad. While conducting my research, by fortunate circumstances, my brother was seated next to someone in a restaurant that happened to be an associate of Dr. Patel. My brother learned all about Dr. Patel, whom I myself was not familiar with. Consequently, I began my investigation and asked several professionals. They informed me that without a doubt the only option was robotic surgery. From the first conversation with the staff, it was apparent that it was a solid organization, structured and very professional. Upon arriving at the hospital, I was very pleased. The lobby was very pleasing...5 star. The attention of the staff was extremely professional. My family and I were consistently informed about the overall process. There were no surprises that you are unaware of and you know what's going on always. Which in return lessened my anxiety. Also, it is worth mentioning Dr. Patel's qualities. Quite honestly, he was extremely cordial, devoted and consistently showing concern for all his patients. Considering the situation, it was a pleasure to have experienced it with him as opposed to anywhere else.

Dr. Hasan Al-Nimah — Ambassador of qatar to the united nations

A friend of mine was our ambassador to the United Nations before I took the same position a few years later. He had the same symptoms as I did. He traveled to London to get medical care. He went through the same prostate tests in London. They found out in a hospital that he had cancer, and that his situation was the same as mine. One of his doctors in London suggested that he should consult one of the best and most famous doctors in this field, Dr. Patel.   I found out through the hospital in my country and through my doctor that there are three different ways to get rid of this problem. The first one is the surgery in which Dr. Patel specializes. The second would be the use of radiation, and the third chemotherapy. Those two other methods were available, but I decided to go through surgery. I believe that's the safest way. With the surgery I won't have to go through any anxieties. Radiation and chemotherapy require follow-up and time, and the results are not guaranteed, so I chose the surgery with Dr. Patel. I am confident and sure of Dr. Patel, because of his knowledge and experience in this field, and because of the success he has experienced in all the surgeries he performed on patients from America and from outside America. I am one example of this success. Based on my own experience, I would advise everyone suffering from prostate cancer to seek better treatment and better results.   I would like to thank Dr. Patel and all the members of his team, and I am very pleased that I found total comfort in this hospital. Actually, it's not only a hospital, but a beautiful health facility. I thank all the employees and I am very proud to have been in this hospital, and to have known Dr. Patel.

BRETT TROIA — THE ATHLETE

Fact: In January of 2010, eight months post-surgery, Brett competed in the same triathlon and achieved a personal-best record time. Congratulations and thank you from all the cancer patients for whom you have raised funds. – Vipul Patel, MD

The treatment and care my family and I received from Florida Hospital and Dr. Vipul Patel's staff was top notch. They are the experts at taking something devastating like prostate cancer and focusing on the desired prognosis rather than the current diagnosis. I have never met such a humble, kind, gentle and sincere person as Dr. Vipul Patel.   On September 21, 2008, I raced for the cure with AFAC triathlon at Walt Disney World in Florida. While I joined in the fight raising over $1,700 for the Prostate Cancer Foundation, little did I know that I, too, had cancer growing within me – a cancer that does not discriminate based on age, race, health or religion.   I was diagnosed with prostate cancer on December 3, 2008, at 41 years old.   After a consultation New Year's Eve with surgeon Dr. Vipul Patel of the GRI, my wife and I decided that a robotic prostatectomy would be our course of treatment. Surgery was then scheduled for April 6, 2009.   I spent the next four months training spiritually and physically for my biggest race ever, the race against cancer. I made a commitment to go into surgery as physically prepared as possible by being in the best shape I have ever been.   So, I was off to prepare for the big day – April 6. The procedure took just over an hour and was executed with total perfection. By the afternoon of surgery day, I was up and walking around -- a bit wobbly at first, but nonetheless, I was on my feet. A mere 23 hours after arrival in my hospital room, I was discharged. Ten months from diagnosis, 25 weeks after surgery, I am cancer-free.

Ralph Jordan — Patient Advocate

I have been a business owner and professional in the health care industry for over 35 years and enjoy a broad knowledge of operating room services. My profession has provided me with a strong emphasis in the areas of neurosurgical, ophthalmic, cardiovascular and orthopedic surgery. However, I didn't have a clue about urology. Briefly, my journey began in July 2007. I had no symptoms, but a routine test revealed an elevated PSA of 4.2. A biopsy followed and cancer was found. I researched and read as many published clinical papers as I could find on prostate cancer treatments. I next contacted Intuitive Surgical, the manufacturer of the da Vinci surgical system, and spoke with their product manager and director of marketing who corroborated and reinforced everything I had heard about Dr. Patel. I contacted Medtronics Corporation, a company that worked with the da Vinci arm in cardiovascular surgery, and there, too, I heard glorious things about Dr. Patel. Finally, I spoke with a few of his patients. That was most beneficial because they confirmed what everyone else had been telling me.   The surgery took place on January 3, 2008. I was walking the halls three hours afterwards in the recovery room. By noon the following day, I was discharged from the hospital and allowed to spend a few days resting at home.

Florida Hospital Celebration Health is unlike any other hospital that I've experienced in all my years in business. Everyone who worked as part of Dr. Patel's team and as hospital support staff was competent and friendly. I was delighted by my experience during the few hours I spent in the hospital at Florida Hospital Celebration Health. I went back to see Dr. Patel on January 9 to have the catheter removed and learned that the cancer was completely contained and the margins were clear. I was cancer-free. My prayers and those of my family and friends had been answered. I was so relieved and happy. To make the day complete, and to my obvious surprise after the catheter was removed, I was and am still, completely continent. As for erectile dysfunction, at 10 weeks after surgery, there were signs and promise that I would soon be back to my old self. As I write this in November 2008, I can happily say it's all good!   I owe a debt of gratitude to Dr. Patel and his wonderful staff and to the caring professionals at Florida Hospital Celebration Health. I will always be thankful for their genuine care, expertise, affirmation and encouragement. There is no question in my mind that robotic prostate surgery as performed by Dr. Patel and his staff is the best singular way to achieve positive results without guess work or complications. There is no doubt in my mind that having Dr. Patel perform the surgery was one of the best decisions that I have made in my life. 

Bertram lewars — the researcher

On October 1, 2007, I found out I had prostate cancer. Upon hearing the news from my urologist that the biopsy had come back positive for cancer, I was absolutely devastated. Once I came to accept the fact that I had cancer, I began weeks of intense research. I searched the Internet, consulted with urologists and other doctors, and spoke with current and former prostate cancer patients. Based on the research and given my age and good health, I determined that to remove the prostate via robotic surgery was the best option for me. The prognosis bode very well for me to make a full recovery since the amount of cancer was small and it was caught early.   Dr. Patel's staff is by far the most thorough, caring and responsible medical staff I have ever seen. Their attention to detail and follow-up is second to none. Dr. Patel himself has a great bedside manner that exudes total confidence and makes the patient feel at ease with the prospect of undergoing this very complicated and sensitive procedure.   On the day of the surgery, I was not nervous at all. Naturally, there was some anxiety, as this was going to be a major operation. However, I had every confidence in the doctor and was relaxed on my way to the hospital. Once I arrived, the medical staff was reassuring and everything went smoothly.   The day after the surgery I felt great. I was walking down the hall and back and had very little pain or discomfort. Once the catheter came out on day six, things began to improve even more quickly. I stopped taking oral pain medication altogether on day seven. Two weeks later all that remains is some minor abdominal soreness. Within a week I regained urinary control and soon all my sexual capacity. I am now cancer-free.

Irving Rosenbaum

I had a PSA test at a urologist, the test was high, from their I had a biopsy and they told me I had prostate cancer. My wife did some research, I consulted with people at the University and people outside of the University as well, they all mentioned Dr. Patel's name. Robotics was the best option for me because I evaluated the alternatives and in terms of my criteria it was my only choice. I think that everything went so well, with the staff with the people at the hospital. It's not easy to go through these transactions, but whatever I went through was a pleasant experience. Everything went very smoothly.