Aaron Neace

From Unexpected Pain to Immediate Action: Aaron’s Story

For Aaron Neace, a normal weekday quickly turned into something much more serious. At 45 years old, he found himself in the emergency room at St. Elizabeth.

“I went to the emergency room on Thursday, Aug 12, 2021, for excruciating abdominal pain,” Aaron recalls. “The Covington emergency department acted quickly and effectively, providing top-level patient care to get me some relief.”

The team identified a bowel obstruction that required emergency surgery and Aaron was transferred to St. Elizabeth Edgewood, where he was stabilized and prepared for surgery later that day.

Skilled Surgical Care, Close to Home

Aaron underwent a complex procedure to reroute two areas of his bowel. He stayed at Edgewood for nine days after surgery, supported by a team that made sure he was cared for every step of the way.

“All the care I received was phenomenal,” Aaron says. “Nurses, doctors and housekeeping were all very attentive to my needs at all times during an incredibly difficult situation for me.”

At St. Elizabeth, surgery is designed to provide expert care for both planned and emergency procedures. With experienced surgeons and a team focused on patient comfort and outcomes, Aaron felt confident he was in good hands.

A Better Outcome Than Expected

Aaron had been told he might need a colostomy bag, but thanks to the approach of Dr. Audrey Ertel, MD, a General Surgeon practicing at St. Elizabeth Healthcare, that wasn’t necessary. “Dr. Ertel came to my room the following day to thoroughly describe to me how she did my surgery in a way I previously didn’t know was possible and resulted in the best outcome,” says Aaron

The experience was also deeply personal. “I felt like it saved my life. I knew that if I hadn’t received the care I needed the situation could have become fatal. It was a very scary and emotional experience for myself and my entire family.”

A Healthier Life Moving Forward

Aaron has lived with Crohn’s disease since 1998. Before the surgery, he often dealt with unpredictable and painful flare-ups. Since the procedure, his health has taken a noticeable turn for the better.

“My overall health living with Crohn’s disease has dramatically improved. My weight has stayed steady, and I no longer show signs of active Crohn’s disease.”

When asked what advice he’d give others, Aaron doesn’t hesitate: “If surgery is needed, Dr. Ertel would be my first choice.”

At St. Elizabeth, Aaron found not only expert surgical care, but a team that treated him with compassion, urgency and respect — making all the difference during a difficult time.

Learn more about General Surgery at St. Elizabeth or schedule your consultation by calling (800) 737-7900.