Patient Testimonial

John Pitre

Patient Testimonial

At 73, John Pitre never imagined that a little back pain could be a warning sign of a life-threatening emergency.

After recently moving some heavy objects, Pitre assumed he had simply pulled a muscle in his back. When the discomfort persisted, he made an appointment with his primary care provider, Desiree Robison, NP, at Opelousas General Rural Health Clinic.

During the examination, Robison wanted to be certain there wasn’t something more serious causing Pitre’s pain. She ordered a CT scan to get a closer look.

Pitre went to Opelousas General Main Campus for the scan. What happened next was something he never expected.

Before leaving the Radiology Department, radiologist Gerard Ballanco, M.D., urgently sought out Pitre and delivered startling news: He was not going home.

The CT scan revealed a large aortic aneurysm that required immediate surgical intervention. He was transported via Air Evac for emergency surgery.

Doctors later told Pitre just how close he had come to losing his life. The aneurysm was on the verge of rupturing, and he was only hours away from what could have been a fatal outcome.

Today, Pitre has made a full recovery and is grateful to be alive. He credits Robison’s careful evaluation, instincts and commitment to looking beyond a simple diagnosis with saving his life.

Pitre is sharing his story as a powerful reminder that seemingly minor symptoms can sometimes signal something much more serious. Listening to your body and seeking medical attention can make all the difference.