Pelvic Pain | Sharing | Patient Stories

Patient Testimonials

September 5, 2006

If you are a patient finding yourself in Dr. Cook’s office know that you are one of the very blessed to have come across Dr. Cook and his staff. Your healing is now going to start. You are with one of the most thoughtful detailed, intelligent, and dedicated doctors working today. I have had many surgeries and been in more medical offices than I care to remember and this one is far and above the rest. You will get no better care, no better relief and no better kindness than here at Vital Health.

I am eternally in gratitude to this fine group of medical professionals. I wish that all medicine were practiced this way. We would all be so much farther ahead. With all my appreciation to Dr. Cook, Linda, Michelle, Kirsten and the entire staff.

Lisa
San Jose, CA

August 15,2005

Hello All,

I had surgery with Dr. Cook on 8/11/05 and it was the best decision I ever made. I was pretty bad prior to surgery, with my cysts (large on my right side ovary) and big fibroids. Dr. Cook got it all out and I feel so great. The staff here are all so wonderful, nice, talented people who are so professional, competent and show a total excellent attitude to patient care. Every day you get better after the surgery. It is just so amazing that the pain is gone. I am now at like a 1 average pain. (1 of 10 on the numeric intensity scale) I am just amazed. I think Dr. Cook is so neat, a cool director who is just so talented. I am so glad I made the trip. I feel totally different about the future. Life is going to be okay.

Thanks, Veronica
West Covina, CA

April 19, 2006

Dear Dr. Cook, This letter has been in our hearts for a long time, unwritten partly due to our circumstances, but also due to the fact that we can NEVER adequately express the appreciation we feel towards you as a doctor and a person. Nadine fells that we should at least try!

Dr. Cook you are truly one of the kindest, most compassionate and knowledgeable doctors we have been privileged to meet. These past two years you have given us endless encouragement, respect, affirmation and cutting edge advice. Without your endometriosis/ pelvic pain expertise we would have been totally lost and even mor vulnerable. For all you have done for our precious daughter Nadine, and all other women in pain, thank you! May God bless you and keep you.

Kind regards and most sincerely Paul, Shirley (parents) and Nadine
St Louis, MO

P.S. While we are on the subject of gratitude, please thank your incredible caring staff too.

June 16, 2005

I have suffered with pelvic pain and endometriosis, allergies, yeast problems and colon problems due to adhesions. I have had 12 pelvic surgeries and constant pelvic pain before I saw Dr Cook. I saw so many doctors and spent so much money on copayments and prescriptions and being told either their is nothing wrong with you or their is nothing we can do except live with the pain. I had a partial bowel obstruction from the pelvic adhesions(scar tissue) and the doctors in Dallas-Fort Worth area told me to live with it until it become a full bowel obstruction and one doctor told me as long as your stool is coming out, don't worry about it. We stated well what about the cramps and pelvic pain and he had no answer and so needless to say I started looking for a doctor that could help me. I first called the Endometriosis Association and was given several doctors in the country that could possibly help. I call all of them but the only one that really seems like they cared was Dr Cook's office. From the minute I spoke with Michelle she made me feel welcome and that I was not alone and that there was help and did not have to live like this. It was very scary to leave Texas to go to California for surgery and to be there for 2 weeks and then also having the financial problems we have had with me being so sick. We found a way to pay for it and to make the trip out there and with hard work with the insurance company and getting the best price for the airplane ticket. Dr Cook is well worth it and his entire staff is wonderful and would do it again in a heartbeat. It has been exactly 1 year and I feel 100 percent better than what I did last year. I was very skeptical at first but he is the first doctor that actually cares that you are in pain and believes in you. He will do what he can to make you feel better and get to the bottom of the problem. Then post-op he cont to care for you by doing phone consult if you live out of state. Take my word for it, he is well worth the time, money and effort. Dr Cook saved my life. I can now enjoy life and do not have to be miserable.

Sincerely Yours;
Diane
Fort Worth, Texas

May 3, 2005

Things had become very grim for me in 2000. I had been diagnosed by another doctor with endometriosis and undergone surgery. The pain had not gone away and he started me on hormonal treatments that results in severe weight gain. When I confronted the doctor about the weight gain and that the pain remained he basically said there was nothing more that he could do and I should consider just going on a diet. I was only 23 years old and I feared becoming infertile due to the hormonal treatments. Depression started to sink in and I didn’t know where to turn. I began searching the internet for support and stumbled on a group of women who spoke about a great doctor, Dr. Cook. I looked him up and considered calling him, but feared hearing another doctor telling me there was nothing that could be done.

Finally, it was my birthday and I couldn’t even get out of bed due to the pain and nausea that followed. My parents called to surprise me by taking me out to eat, but all I could do was cry because I knew I could not bear to leave the house. My mother had heard me mention Dr. Cook and called his office right away. The nurses comforted my mother and said they would give me a call to ease my emotional pain. Sure enough someone from the office called and told me that there was hope and not to give up. We made an appointment right away. That phone call meant the world to me. I was just about to give up hope of leading a life that was somewhat normal and happy.

On my first appointment my whole family tagged along. Dr. Cook and all the staff were willing spend the time to not only ease my fears and worries but theirs as well. Dr. Cook listened to all my concerns and was able to pinpoint the possible problems. After trying non-surgical procedures to manage the pain we finally decided to have surgery.

Since my surgery with Dr. Cook, my pain is almost non-existent. I am no longer plagued with pelvic pain and I have a new outlook on life. It is Dr. Cook and all of his caring staff that have given me hope and a renewed faith in the medical field. I am now married and looking forward to starting a family.

Thank you Dr. Cook and all the staff for everything.
Kristie
Fresno, California

August 30,2004

A note of thanks to Dr. Cook, Linda, Michelle and the rest of the staff at Vital Care Institute for the exceptional care I received.

Like so many others who have found you, I suffered for more than 15 years with the struggle of Endometriosis. The severity of my symptoms was no longer something I could conceal, and was impacting the quality of my life in a bug way. After seeing numerous doctors, many of whom did not seem to understand the pain I was going through, nor seemed the least bit interested in the treatment of endometriosis, I discovered specialty care with Dr. Cook. From my first telephone contact with the office, the entire experience was extremely professional. Dr. Cook took the time to listen to the problems I was having, and completed a thorough exam. He spent time discussing the treatment options with my husband and me, assuring that no question went unanswered. The surgery went well, and although most of my healing took place at home across the country, the follow up care was excellent, and I remained in close contact with Dr. Cook and Linda who wanted to make sure that I continued on a positive path to wellness.

I write to you one year following my treatment with Dr. Cook and am so very thankful for having found someone who could make such a positive change in my life. I came from one coast to the other for treatment, and I am grateful to say life is good again. I would highly recommend Dr. Cook.

Carol D, RN
Vermont

August 8, 2004

I would highly recommend Dr. Cook if you are faced with a decision to have a hysterectomy. I suffered with heavy and painful periods for years. During the past 2 years the symptoms worsened so that I could barely function at times. Dr. Cook was the first doctor to do an ultrasound and find out exactly what was happening to my uterus. I had 40 fibroids in my uterus. Prior to seeing Dr. Cook, I had gone to 5 other doctors. The first doctor was very abrupt and scowled at me from behind his humongous wooden desk. He exclaimed, “Your uterus is the size of a 4-month pregnant woman!” He did not bother to explain what that meant. He told me either I could endure the symptoms until menopause or submit to a new procedure his partner was doing. The second doctor promised to “balance my system” and therefore take care of the heavy monthly bleeding. She put me on a vitamin regimen that encompassed over 100 vitamins a day. In addition, I took algae pills, liquid vitamins, and colloidal minerals. For six months I was on a chemical roller coaster. I was still anemic and had heavy periods.

The next doctor acted like he never wanted to see another menopausal women walk through his door. I started my period and it did not stop. It had been over two weeks. Then I broke out in spots on my stomach. I felt numbness and tingling in my hands and feet. I had not slept in several days. This doctor refused to acknowledge my spots. For him, my spots simple did not exist. His eyes glazed over and he patted me on the head. With a weary sigh, he told me just to bear with the symptoms since I was so close to menopause. With that final advice, he left with the nurse.

Finally, in desperation I went to a homeopathic doctor. He said, “Deborah, embrace these symptoms. This is a major life change. All these things are part of the natural process you must go through.” I thought to myself, “Only a man would tell a woman to embrace hot flashes, insomnia, weight gain, panic attacks, and excessive bleeding!”

Then I discovered VitalCare. What a refreshing change! I called and talked to Jennifer at Dr. Cook’s office. She was so knowledgeable and compassionate. She said she would send me a packet to fill out. When I received the packet the following day, I was extremely impressed as the questions were very thorough and detailed. Dr. Cook also requested all of my past medical records. I thought, “Here is a doctor that is organized and has his act together!” I knew with this kind of preparation, we would get to the root of the problem.

My husband and I met with Dr. Cook in a lovely room that was like a small living room—very personal and non-threatening. As I had previously mentioned, Dr. Cook was the first doctor to run an ultrasound to actually see what was happening in my uterus. He looked me straight in the eye and told me that I had a diseased organ which needed to come out.

I told Dr. Cook that I first wanted to see if we could control the excessive bleeding by taking bioidentical hormones and balancing my estrogen. Dr. Cook said that he would be glad to work with me to accomplish my goal. This means a lot to me. Unfortunately, my time had run out as I started bleeding again after just having a period. My blood count was extremely low and I knew if I lost any more blood I would be in serious trouble. I decided to go ahead and have a hysterectomy.

Dr. Cook and his staff were wonderful. The hospital that Dr. Cook used doesn’t have the typical hospital feeling. I am “hospital phobic” so this was a delightful surprise. My room had a beautiful view of trees and plenty of light. I brought fresh flowers with me and also an assortment of relaxing music to listen to.

My operation went over the expected time and I was in the operating room for an extra hour. I had four small (1/4” to ½”) incisions. Bravo to Dr. Cook! I think if I would have had any Other doctor he would have had to use a bikini cut. But, with Dr. Cook’s expertise he was able to perform miracles!!

I never had any pain. I was in the hospital for one day. When I arrived home, I only took the pain pills for three days. Even during those three days, I did not experience any pain. I rested and walked around the house as much as possible. During the fifth week, I took walks at the beach. On the sixth week, I was back in exercise class. I feel terrific and have lost 13lbs in seven weeks.

I am excited about the future. It is wonderful to not have to endure pain and suffering every month. I can feel my body getting stronger every week. That spark and vitality is back in my life and I can walk with a spring in my step. Thank you Dr. Cook!!!

Sincerely,
Deborah
Monterey, CA

July 9, 2004

Just wanted to drop you a quick note to say that I am still doing wonderfully since my surgery with Dr. Cook 20 months ago! I have had NO endometriosis related problems or pain. I feel so blessed to have found Dr. Cook when I did - I had been virtually bed bound from pain for 6 months and had endo pain for 16 years prior to that - not to mention the 7 previous surgeries! I since have moved from Arkansas to Texas and have found that even here in the Dallas/Fort Worth area the doctors that I see are extremely impressed with Dr. Cook. My dream when I moved was to hopefully find a doctor like Dr. Cook who cares about his patients, listens to them and desires to help them. I am happy to say that I found that person - can you believe that there is actually another doctor out there like Dr. Cook? (well, similar anyway - no one could ever equal him!) I am still receiving treatment for my Interstitial Cystitis which thanks to Dr. Cook was diagnosed about 7 years before the average patient with IC and have since been diagnosed with fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. Even with these things I am doing better than when I was dealing with the endo alone. Finding Dr. Cook gave me hope when I did not have any and taught me to take an active role in my health care - to not be afraid to speak up and ask questions and most importantly - become educated! Thanks again for all you did for me back in November 2002. You will NEVER know the impact you had on my life. You see, I had considered the possibility that life may not be worth living if I had to live it in such tremendous pain. Thank you for listening to me, validating me and most of all taking my pain away and giving my life back!

Pam W.
Flower Mound, TX

June 7, 2004

In the last 10+ years, I have undergone four previous laparotomies, two of them emergency for total bowel obstruction before finding Dr. Cook. Dr. Cook performed my fifth [initial] and sixth [second look] adhesiolysis/enterolysis surgeries. These post operative surgical excerpts reflect my exaggerated condition and ultimately reflect Dr. Cook’s extraordinary talent in the resolution of non-stop adhesions:

First Surgery:“The liver was adhesed to the abdominal wall. The stomach was adhesed to the abdominal wall. Multiple loops of small bowel were adhesed to the abdominal wall with virtual complete obliteration of the abdominal and pelvic cavity. There were multiple loops of bowel adhesed to other loops of bowel. The adhesions extended into the pelvis. The pelvic cavity was completely obliterated. The bowel was densely adhesed over both iliac vessels, over the bladder, and over the fundus of the uterus with obliteration of posterior cul-de-sac. The uterus was present, although approximately two and a half hours of enterolysis had to be performed to get down to the level of the pelvis and the uterus. This was among the most extensive cases of adhesions and enterolysis that are possible. This was a frozen abdominal and pelvic cavity. There were loops of small bowel densely adhered to other loops of small bowel. Other than the space of entry, there was no space present in the entire abdominal or pelvic cavity.”

I would like to know how in the world he happened to know where this only space to enter into was. This has not ceased to amaze me. Any other surgeon would have put me through another laparotomy but Dr. Cook was able to do this laparoscopically with mutual prior understanding that a laparotomy was highly possible.

Second Surgery: “Overall there was about a ten percent reformation. Virtually all of the abdominal wall, the area that had been dissected one week ago, was free of adhesions. The patient had, to this date, remarkably few adhesions reform following such an extensive case of dense cohesive adhesions."

It is a known fact that 95% of all patients will have reformed adhesions on the second look. Although I did have reformed adhesions, the amount of reformation was only ten percent. Quite a feat against the usual odds. However, the first and foremost prerequisite for a successful adhesiolysis surgery is surgeon technique and knowledge.

In addition to this expertise I so desperately needed in a surgeon, I was cared for in a way I never expected. There was complete communication between all professional parties [surgeon, assistant surgeon, hospital nurses, office personnel] affording me the ease in obtaining what I needed at any one time without hassle. Most of us know the runaround. Dr. Cook listened to what I said to the extent he understood me as if he WERE me. I was treated as a person and never felt I was being rushed. He truly earns the pedestal the rest of them think they’re on because he thrives on being able to make a difference. What most of us have encountered are surgeons with inflated egos who end up making no difference. I can tell you, beware of anyone who thinks they know your body better than you do. Dr. Cook ASKS questions; he wants to know how and what you feel. He does not have an ego to get IN the way.

I have never had a reason to give a testimonial and I do not hand them out without good cause, nor do I think what I convey is adequate, but I can confidently say, without question, that if you have found yourself in this office, you were meant to be here. Know you are in the best of hands; fulfill your intention; remember you are here because you decided you can’t live this way.

I am so glad Dr. Cook is alive at this pivotal time in my life. He is truly a caring, competent human being and surgeon. He has validated the light at the end of the tunnel and has given me a place to finally be able to utilize those things I need to begin rebuilding my body.

Wishing you courage and the best of health

Joan
Arizona

March 22, 2004

Dr. Cook, Linda, Michelle, Jen and Andrea,

I wanted to take the time to formally thank-you all for all of your help. I can’t even begin to express how much I appreciate everything you have done for me and for my family. Cliff’s and my trip to California couldn’t have been smoother, thank-you Michelle for all the time and effort you put into making out of state patients trips so painless and easy. Everything you put together was such a tremendous amount of help. The folder that you sent went everywhere with us and I put everything in it. I still have it here on my desk and it will become part of our scrap book (when we get around to doing it). Andrea, your sweet voice on the phone is such a reassuring sound when I call. I know whatever the problem is you will help and be glad to do it. Jen, you have been so great to me, so caring, understanding, and helpful. Linda, thank-you so much for your words of encouragement, your wonderful advice, and your invaluable medical knowledge. Dr. Cook , where can I start? Let me start with you have a wonderful bunch of women working with you! It doesn’t matter how good of a Dr. you are, it you don’t have wonderful staff, patients won’t come back. That is something you don’t have to worry about. From the first time Michelle called me after I filled out the form on the internet, I knew that I found a wonderful Dr.’s office that actually cared. I was actually surprised she called and so soon. Then she set-up our first phone appointment. I will have to say I was a little skeptical. Like what does this guy think he’s going to be able to do over the phone and WOW I was wrong. You really listened to me and you believed me (now I’m crying. Did I say YOU BELIEVED ME! I know what I had read on the website, but it was all true, all of it. It was like someone finally understood what I had been going through and could fix it and was going to do something about. You didn’t brush me off, offer me treatments I already had been through, or want to give me more drugs. You simply wanted to make me better. THANK-YOU! I trusted you completely from the first phone consult. I wasn’t nervous at all to come out and have surgery. Meeting you in person only confirmed everything I already knew. You are wonderful and caring. I had myself prepared to come to from surgery in pain and that wasn’t the case. I still can’t believe I didn’t hurt at all. My first thoughts after surgery was that I needed to call my mom and my kids to let them know I was ok. I didn’t cry and I didn’t hurt. It didn’t end then either. You have all taken such good care of me since I came home. Anything I have needed you have all taken care of for me so quickly. No promise of phone calls to never happen or we’ll get back to you. Michelle, thank-you so much for the day I called and you answered the phone and recognized by my voice that something was wrong. That would never happen or we’ll get back to me anywhere else. I was having such a bad day and was getting crappy advice from my family doctor and I didn’t know where to turn to or what to do. I was so discouraged. You knew right away, asked what was wrong and you helped fix everything. You had answers and advice and took better care of everything. You lifted the weight off my shoulders and made me feel so much better. Dr. Cook, you never cease to amaze me. I can’t believe when I told you about the pain on my right side, you knew it was my nerve and knew exactly what I needed to do to fix it. How do you do it? Linda, thank you for recommending that I stop the Zelnorm, I have felt a million times better since. Thank-you for sending me for a urinalysis, it was a relief to know that everything was okay. I can’t believe how much you all can accomplish from California. Jen, thanks for calling to check on me and filling out all my papers and taking care of my prescriptions. Dr. Cook, you truly are an amazing doctor. You might not think it’s a big deal, but trust me to someone like me, it’s a huge deal. To live in pain and misery for years, to not be able to get the help you need, to have everyone blow you off like it’s no big deal. Then to find you, someone who is going to take care of everything, that is a huge deal. Thank-you for your wonderful sense of humor and putting up with my warped sense of humor. Most of all, THANK YOU ALL for putting with me, taking care of me, and helping me. I most definitely made the right choice in coming to California. If I had to do it over again I wouldn’t change a thing. You are truly an amazing group of people. I don’t know anyone that they like everything in their doctor’s office, but I can say that I love everyone at my doctor’s office.

Lots of love,
Angela

February 9, 2004

This letter is to relay my experience with endometriosis and my outcomes at the VitalCare Institute.

My abdominal pain was only associated with menstruation for the initial part of my ordeal which started approximately 10 years ago. However, I assumed that such pain was experienced by the majority of menstruating women. Over the counter medication was my only source of relief. Then, approximately 4 years ago, I complained to my GYN that the pain was becoming increasingly worse. Over the counter medication was providing no relief. I was advised to take Aleve when the pain began. Ah, why didn’t I think of that?

January of 2001 was the start of acute pain that resulted in 2 trips to the ER. Several tests were conducted – upper/lower GI, abdominal/pelvic/vaginal ultrasounds, blood workups, etc. Conclusion: none. Finally a laparoscopy was performed. Findings: beyond stage IV endo. The GYN’s recommendation: 9 months of Lupron. I could only handle 5 and regret that I did any. Weight gain, hair loss, irritability, and fatigue set in with a vengeance. And then the pain returned. I had had enough and was ready for the ultimate in relief – a hysterectomy. The GYN wanted to wait for menopause (10years down the road) and run more tests. Out of shear frustration I ran a web search and happened upon the VitalCare Institute website.

The initial phone consultation with Dr. Cook provided me with an immediate positive feeling. He looked at my history, test results, and gave me his recommendations – no gray area, no more tests. What an immense relief. I couldn’t schedule the surgery fast enough.

What else can I say about the VitalCare Institute experience that you haven’t already heard? From day one I was greeted with caring, concern and compassion by the entire staff. The doctor really listened to me. The 3 days prior to surgery were so thorough. More attention was paid to my situation in those 3 days than in the previous 2 years.

The day of surgery was as stress free as a surgery day can be. The staff (MD’s, nurses, business personnel) were all attentive and helped put my nerves at ease. And, as Dr. Cook had explained, the surgery went as expected with removal of Stage IV endo and an ensuing hysterectomy (with one ovary remaining). Please note that of the 4 GYNs that I consulted, none had addressed the ability to remove the endo along with the hysterectomy. Also, the previous GYNs told that a laparoscopic hysterectomy was impossible for stage IV endo. However, Dr. Cook’s expertise left me with the feeling of completion and a faster recovery than conventional surgery.

It is now 3 months post surgery. I’ve experienced minimal discomfort with healing. My biggest complaint is the continuing fatigue. But, that also has been lessened with time. I’ll take fatigue over pain any day of the week! No more trips to the ER, no more prescription pain medications, no more fearful anticipation of what each month would bring. I have not had to take any time off from work due to pain. I am able to enjoy weekends to the fullest. To sum it all up, VitalCare Institute has enabled me to focus on life instead of endo.

Sincerely,
Beth
Long Beach, CA

February 8, 2004

It has been 7mo since my surgery with Dr Cook and I'm writing you so that you may share this in the book you have in the office that made me feel so much better before my surgery. It's really hard to put into words what I want to say but I'll try.

I found Dr. Cook through the VitalCare website out of desperation in the August of 03. The GYN I had at the time was certain that the endo I previously had was gone since in his mind there were no concrete "signs" that I still had endometriosis, I had a lot of pain and was tired of being brushed aside from doctors. I wanted to find a specialist, and that I did.

Looking back it was a whirlwind of a time, within 3 weeks of my first conversation with Dr. Cook I was 3000 mi away from home and through with surgery. It definitely was the right time for me to have the surgery for a few reasons, and I think GOD was behind the timing and behind the discovery of Dr Cook. Now that the holidays are over I've had a little more time to reflect on what has happened to my body and my life. I have no pain, or very little to speak of and I started holding monthly meetings in the beginning of the year at a local hospital for the support group I run for the ERC. Unfortunately, before my second meeting, my boyfriend's sister, Melissa was in the ER for a ruptured cyst. Being so close, we've had many opportunities to discuss all the symptoms of pelvic pain. I also in the last month have met two other individuals in my daily paths who suffer from similar pelvic pain issues. I have directed all of these people to your site because I believe it holds as one of the best resources out there for pelvic pain issues.

One night Melissa watched the tape of my surgery in August (I hadn't watched it yet) and I really think that I had not really reflected on all I had gone through until then because I was just enjoying being pain free and maybe even forgot about the pain I had before (brains work really funny like that). Anyway, since I've been able to offer some sense of acknowledgment to these other women's symptoms, I am thoroughly thankful of what has been given back to me by the hands of Dr. Cook and his staff. Without the help of my family, who helped pay for part of the surgery and travel expenses, and the organized and welcoming staff at Vital Care, I would not be who I am today. As I try to direct these other women to find the care and resources they need to feel better. I feel like I've been given a priceless gift, to have been able to have such a knowledgeable kind surgeon pay attention to my body long enough to change my overall well being for the better. I only wish that there were clones of Dr Cook around the country so that every woman could have the chance that I've had to go on with life pain free. I'm turning 30 next weekend and I cannot imagine a better way to celebrate than leaving all the pain and suffering of endo behind as I enter a new chapter in life.

Thank you Dr Cook for all you've done, and may GOD bless you in every way!

Sincerely,
Maureen K.
Connecticut

August 6, 2003

Dear Dr. Cook,

You can’t imagine how many times I have started this letter. It is long overdue, but I haven’t been able to find the words to correctly express my gratitude for the phenomenal care that I have received in the past 8 months and for the care I continue to receive. So, today I have decided to say just that…there are not enough words in the English language to express my thanks to you and your staff for helping me get my life back. After WAY too many years of excruciating endo pain, I’m finally seeing the “light at the end of the tunnel”.

I knew you were a physician I could trust when upon my first consultation, you told me that you could not cure my Endo, but that if we worked together, I’d be feeling better by the end of the year. I remember leaving your office thinking, “Wow….a doctor that not only believes me in regards to the pain I was going through, but a doctor that was honest with me and willing to be a partner with me and my healthcare”. What a gift.

Your staff is beyond wonderful. From the first cell phone call and email contacts with Michelle, I knew instantly that a whole new chapter in my life was beginning to open. I have to say that I think Michelle is one of the most caring and honest individuals I have ever met. It’s a comfort to have her available to help answer my endless questions and emails to assist me on my journey back to good health. The warm smiles and friendliness from Andrea and Jennifer make nervous and uncomfortable situations seem easy. Jennifer even made an entire day of food allergy testing very enjoyable. (Although, I think she had a little bit too much fun sticking me with all those needles….just kidding!) Linda is an angel that doesn’t judge me and has assisted me during the lowest points on my journey. Her compassionate voice and eagerness to work with me has been invaluable to me and gets me back on track. Even conservations with Dan regarding the unpleasant financial aspect of dealing with insurance and such have been rather enjoyable. You could not have assembled a better team of individuals for your Institute of Health!

My surgical experience with you (assisted by Dr. Brown) back in May and recovery was a very positive experience. The facilities of the Menlo Park Surgical Center are exceptional and the staff treated my family and me as if we were royalty. I believe that the care and comfort I received from them along with your advanced surgical techniques is why it was so much easier this time. You explained your surgical findings to my husband in a way that he could finally understand what I was/am going through. That, in itself, has been invaluable to our marriage and me. The mere fact that your view of surgery is that it’s just one piece to the puzzle, and not the only treatment for Endo, provides me with more hope for a long pain free future.

Your dedication to helping women such as myself is clear and evident in everything that you say and do. I know I still have some hard work ahead of me as I continue down the road to restoring my health and my journey with Endometriosis, IC, Infertility, and Fibromyalgia….but I know my journey is made easier and more hopeful with the care and support I receive from you and your dedicated staff. Each day I feel a little bit better and gain a little bit more energy. These diseases no longer dictate my entire life…I now have some of that power back. Some days, I can come home from a full day at work and still have enough energy to accomplish a small project at home. I can go out on a long walk with my husband and dogs and not have to take 2 days afterwards to recover. These may seem like small milestones of improvement to the average person, but they are huge steps forward for me.

So again, I don’t know how to thank you enough. I no longer hide the fact that I have Endo, IC, Fibro and our struggles with infertility because opportunity to talk about it all is also an opportunity to talk about the VitalCare Institute of Health and the phenomenal care I have received. Every morning when I wake up I say a special prayer of gratitude for you and your staff for what you have brought to my life. Thank you for your patience, your sense of humor, your understanding and willingness to treat me as a partner and equal in my healthcare! Through your guidance and continued care, I am getting my life back! I am starting to be the woman I have longed to be and I can now visualize being a healthier person and accomplishing some of the things I’ve always wanted to do. Endo is no longer the dominating force in my life…increased energy from living more pain free is. Your slogan says it all….under your care, women are treated the way they should be, and deserve to be treated!

To put a new spin on the popular Mastercard commercials…gas to travel to Dr. Cook’s office=$20…..a day of allergy testing with Jennifer=$400…being fortunate enough to be a patient of Dr. Andrew Cook….priceless.

Sincerely, Shannon

A special thanks from me too!!! Richard

“If the only prayer you say in your life is ‘thank you’, that would suffice.” -Meister Eckhart

March 28,2003

Dear Dr. Cook and Staff at VitalCare,

This letter is long overdue, but I wanted to let all of you know what a wonderful experience we’ve had thus far with all of you and the care you give. After two years of suffering with endometriosis, going through countless surgeries and numerous drug treatments, not to mention a complete hysterectomy and trips to 2 of the most renowned medical institutes in Minnesota, only to be told I was nuts, I finally found relief. The jury is still out on whether I’m nuts or not, but all joking aside, my pain was very real and very debilitating. FINALLY finding someone to listen, acknowledge my pain and offer even the hope of partial relief was hard to believe. My expectations were far surpassed by your compassion, care and help. When we called in December to find out more about your institute, we were immediately struck by the time taken by Michelle to go through the process, answer endless questions and offer hope right from the start. We were further impressed with our phone consult with Dr. Cook, his care, concern and offer of hope. Then to have it all come together so quickly, to work with us, our insurance, our doctor, and my work so that we could come to California within the span of a week was beyond our wildest expectations. Arriving in California, meeting Jennifer, Linda and Dr. Cook instantly made any uneasiness we had about what we were do quickly disappear. The time all of you took to spend with not only me, but my husband, to listen, examine me thoroughly, educate us and answer any questions was something I’ve never experienced in my 42 years of doctoring. By the time surgery rolled around on Thursday, I had no misgivings whatsoever about placing my health in your capable hands. I knew somewhere in the deep recesses of my mind that I would feel better. I still have a hard time believing that this will last, but my hope has been restored. My surgery experience was unlike any other, as has been my follow up care. We have appreciated the phone follow ups with Linda, Dan and Dr. Cook, answering questions, doling out advice, prescribing medication and answering the financial questions. Being able to call at any time with a question and know that we will receive a response within a day in something we’re simply just not used to. Never once has a request gone unanswered! Since returning to work, my colleagues and parents of students have all commented o the return color to my face, the upright position when waling, the wardrobe of more than bibs and just how much better I seam. Even my first graders have noticed the difference, saying things like, “Ms. Mullin, you look like you don’t hurt anymore.” “I’m so glad I can hug you again!” I have noticed more focus, more energy, FAR less pain, regular eating, sleeping and normal body functions. I still have things I’m apprehensive about, but my husband is being patient and I know that these areas will also return to normal (what’s that?). I know I have a ways to go with the bladder disease, fibromyolgia and the recommended follow ups here, but I’ve come so far and it’s all thanks to all of you. You truly are a unique a unique place giving top notch, special care to women who have lost hope and a sense of normalcy in their lives. We can’t thank you enough. WE only wish that more doctors and clinics would follow suit so that women didn’t have to go so long before finding the help they need and deserve.

With sincere gratitude for all you have done and continue to do,
Carol and Tom
Minnesota

February 8, 2003

Overall, I feel so much better!! Before surgery, I could barely get through the day – even on pain meds.

Now, I’m enjoying life, work, family and continuing my education in nursing (nurse anesthetist).

You saved my life!

Thank you,
Kirsten
Utah

February 2003

I have struggled with endometriosis and pelvic pain since I was 15 years old. I am now 32. After many surgeries that included a hysterectomy and three years later a bilateral salpingo-oorphorectomy, I was still having severe pelvic pain that interfered with every aspect of my life. That is when I found Dr. Cook.

My experience at VitalCare Institute of Health was amazing. Dr. Cook really listened to me and believed that my pain was real. His focus was not only on endometriosis but also on any other problems that could be causing my pain. I feel very fortunate that he found I had other problems in addition to endometriosis and I now receive treatment for those issues. Otherwise, I would still be walking around in pain without knowing the cause. My local doctors have been VERY impressed with Dr. Cook and his knowledge.

Behind every good doctor is his staff and without a committed staff the doctor cannot succeed. The staff at Athena was wonderful (and still is)! They helped with every aspect of my care from finances and hotel to answering medical questions. My phone calls were always returned in a timely manner. Everyone was always willing to help in any way they could.

I have learned throughout the years that my body should be as important to my doctor as it is me. This is the case with Dr. Cook. Sure, it is costly to travel out of state for medical care- but Dr. Cook is considered one of the best in the field ( THE best as far as I am concerned) and I believe I am worth it. Since my surgery on November 7, 2002 my quality of life has improved 100%. I no longer have endometriosis or the pain associated with it. He painstakingly removed every abnormal cell from my body.

My family thanks you, Dr. Cook and I thank you for giving my life back to me. My five-year-old son no longer draws family pictures with mommy lying in bed! Thank you so much Dr. Cook! I would travel around the world to get treatment with you again if I needed it.

Sincerely,
Pam
Arkansas

January 7, 2003

I just really wanted to thank everyone at VitalCare and at Menlo Park Surgical Hospital (special thanks to Margie and Ronces, the two of them were absolutely fantastic, caring, compassionate and most of all very encouraging) for dealing with every aspect of my visit with the utmost care and compassion. I can honestly say that I have never felt that kind of individual care at any health care facility in my life. The words 'thank you' seem so minimal to what I actually feel.

I also wanted to mention that Kevin really wishes to thank everyone too. He was so impressed by everyone and everything that went on at the clinic. We just really don't know how to thank everyone enough. All I can say is that anyone we know that is going through anything related to pelvic trouble, we are going to strongly recommend seeing all of you at VitalCare. I personally will shout it from the mountain tops if it can help even one person.

Thank you.
Ingrid
Shizuoka, Japan

December 13, 2002

I traveled from Texas for Dr. Cook’s help. I had dealt with endo pain for years. I had already had surgeries. To remove the endo, but it kept coming back. I was really depressed. Dr. Cook was a wonderful, caring man. His clinic set up our hotel and even paid attention to little details to make our stay more comfortable. I had endo everywhere it seems, and adhesions. Dr. Cook performed laser ablation of endo and a hysterectomy on me in 1998 and I have been pain free for 4 years!! I bless him every day of my life because he gave me my life back. I would travel anywhere in the world to see him if I had that kind of pain again. Last year I had to have an ovary removed. My hometown gynecologist searched for endo while inside and found none. He was very impressed. He said, “What was the name of that doctor again?”

Tina
Texas

Updated October 10, 2006

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