Going the Extra Mile to Achieve a Milestone

Life can change in the blink of an eye, as Emily Adams discovered in 2022 during a family vacation in the Florida Keys. She experienced an acute volvulus of the ascending colon, and an emergency surgery saved her life. After recovery and with the support of her close friend and running coach, Adams began training for her first marathon to transform her experience into resilience.

In late 2023, Adams was referred to general surgeon Byron Stapleton, DO, for lingering issues related to her previous surgery. She immediately felt at ease with Dr. Stapleton, as he had already researched her complex case and consulted with her previous surgeon, alleviating the need for her to recount her story in detail.

He skillfully performed surgery to remove scar tissue and Adams emerged from the procedure with a positive experience. “I truly can’t say enough good things about Dr. Stapleton,” she expressed with gratitude for his care throughout the process.

After a year without problems related to her condition, Adams found herself back in the hospital in October 2024 due to an acute bowel obstruction. Enter Dr. Stapleton, who, to her surprise, still remembered her a year after her first appointment.

“He actively listened to my concerns and walked me and my husband through my options and any possible challenges ahead. He understood my determination to reach my goal [of running the marathon] and assured me I’d be healed just in time for the race—and he was right!” shared Adams.

In December 2024, Adams crossed the finish line of her very first marathon—an incredible achievement that not only showcased her physical endurance but also stood as a testament to her strength.

Looking ahead, Adams finds comfort in having Dr. Stapleton as her local surgeon as she prepares for her upcoming races: the Charleston Half Marathon and the DONNA Marathon Weekend.

Regardless of any challenges that may arise in the future, she feels reassured knowing that she has a trusted doctor nearby. With her loving husband, Jay, and their two daughters, Teddy and Sutton, she has a solid support system, cheering her on every step of the way.