Dr. Gitelis first saw Christopher Levesque in May of 2005. A survivor of Ewing's Sarcoma seven years prior, Christopher had developed a rare type of post radiation cancer.

Treating this cancer required a very intricate cancer surgery involving Orthopaedic, Vascular and Thoracic surgeons. The operation involved the removal of his collarbone and a portion of his breast bone, with dissection and preservation of the great vessels of the arm and chest. In spite of this setback, his spirits remained high.

Early this year, however, Christopher developed additional post-radiation cancer in his shoulder. On April 5, Dr. Gitelis performed a second complex cancer operation. The procedure involved removal of his entire scapula and attachment of the humerus to a rib. After removal of the cancer in the front of the shoulder, the scapula and back of the shoulder, Christopher now does not have a shoulder joint. He does, however, have normal function of his elbow wrist, and fingers.

Christopher recovered so quickly, he recently attended the opening game of the Chicago Bulls/Miami Heat playoff series and participated in the ceremonial ball toss. His courage is an inspiration to everyone at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, and is a source of hope to other cancer patients.