An estimated 800 people per year are diagnosed with osteosarcoma, 400 of those are under the age of 20. This rare form of bone cancer, found mostly in teenagers and those in their early twenties, is a disease that Dr. Steven Gitelis has diagnosed and treated for more than 30 years.

The diagnosis of cancer for a young patient is a life changing event that leads to many questions. Dr. Gitelis' experience in working closely with young patients and their families from diagnosis through recovery has given him insight in not only how to treat the disease, but most importantly the patient. Dr. Gitelis and his staff at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush grow very close with their patients, continuing the relationship even after the patient is cancer free. "I work with the most amazing patients, each one affecting my life as much as I affect theirs," said Dr. Gitelis.

Recently, Dr. Gitelis along with three of his patients and their families organized a golf outing in celebration of life after cancer. The three patients included Chad Czyzewicz of Woodridge, Shane Bryant of Glen Ellyn, and Victor Postillion of Hinsdale. The three men as well as Victor's mother Kerry Postillion, a well known amateur golfer from the area, joined Dr. Gitelis and his nurse, Patty Piasecki, on the course for a much needed round of golf.

The three young men all played golf for their respective high school teams, and continue to golf regularly with family and friends. "Golf is a great way for patients to keep their competitive spirit while playing in a low impact sport. We also encourage patients to swim for the same reason," said nurse practitioner, Patty Piasecki. "These activities can be done from their teenage years to their golden years."

"My family is very thankful for Dr. Gitelis and his team at Midwest Orthopedics for the amazing work they do. We are also thankful for pediatric oncologist Dr. Paul Kent and his oncology team at Rush Hospital. Victor, Shane, and Chad are blessed to have such dedicated, compassionate people caring for them and giving all of us HOPE," said Kerry Postillion.

Victor and Shane have both gone on to begin college at the University of Arizona and Indiana University. Chad recently completed his senior year at Downers Grove North and will begin a Golf Management program at Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan, in the fall. The three had been acquaintances prior to their diagnosis and treatment, but grew closer through treatment and found a common interest in the sport. It has been a long journey for all three young men. Through hard work and motivation, support from their families and friends, and the care of Dr. Gitelis and his team they have been able to beat cancer and return to their sport, proving that there is life after cancer.