Transforming Healthcare in Victoria: A Leap Into Robotic Surgery

A groundbreaking initiative is underway on Vancouver Island, spearheaded by local surgeons, donors, and the community. The Victoria Hospitals Foundation has launched the ambitious campaign titled, "It’s Time for Surgical Innovation," aiming to raise $17 million to revolutionize surgical care at Royal Jubilee and Victoria General hospitals.

This campaign will focus on incorporating cutting-edge robotic surgery and a suite of 50 state-of-the-art instruments, which promise to enhance precision and visualization during operations. The benefits are clear: not only will patients experience less pain and a reduced risk of complications, but hospitals will also see a decrease in the need for extensive nursing care. This innovation is poised to set a new standard for surgical practices in Victoria, directly impacting the lives of thousands of patients.

Steve Marta's Inspiring Journey

Steve Marta, an inspiring figure in the campaign, shares his personal health struggles that have fueled his passion for this initiative. After being diagnosed with prostate cancer last year—a disease that plagues his family—Marta's journey through diagnosis and treatment has unveiled the urgent need for surgical advancements in local healthcare.

Throughout the course of his treatment, Marta was fortunate to have dedicated medical professionals, particularly Dr. Iain McAuley and Dr. Jeff McCracken, guiding him through the complexities of his condition. His story highlights the critical importance of early detection and the proactive nature of healthcare providers, who emphasized the need for a biopsy despite initial MRI results showing no abnormalities.

The Need for Robotic Surgery

Faced with a choice between radiation and surgery, Marta opted for the latter to remove the cancer without enduring hormone-blocking therapy. Unfortunately, he soon discovered that Victoria did not yet offer robotic surgery, which could have significantly improved his recovery experience.

Robotic surgery boasts numerous advantages, including shorter hospital stays and quicker recovery times, making it a highly sought-after option for surgical patients. Had it been available, Marta might have avoided some of the complications he encountered post-surgery, such as a painful blood clot, illustrating the pressing need for this technology within the local healthcare framework.

A Message of Hope and Advocacy

Complications aside, the good news came when pathology reports suggested success in the surgery. Marta's resilience, bolstered by the unwavering support of his wife Lisa and family, has turned a challenging narrative into one of hope and inspiration. He now advocates fervently for the implementation of robotic surgery at Victoria hospitals, believing it could transform patient experiences and outcomes.

"This is not just about me," Marta asserts. "It’s about every future patient who could benefit from these advancements."

Support the Campaign

As the Victoria Hospitals Foundation seeks support for its surgical innovation campaign, Marta’s story underscores a pivotal message—the integration of modern surgical technology holds the promise of enhanced care and recovery for patients in Victoria. With contributions from the community, the Foundation aims to equip their skilled surgeons with the tools necessary for next-level patient care.

To learn more and support the Victoria Hospitals Foundation’s "It’s Time for Surgical Innovation" campaign, visit VictoriaHF.ca/ItsTime or call the Foundation at 250-519-1750. Together, we can pave the way for a healthier future on Vancouver Island!