RUTHERFORD COUNTY, TN - Since the age of 20, Misty Smith, now 49, had been struggling with thyroid issues, experiencing episodes of choking and difficulty breathing. After many years of ultrasounds, biopsies, and consultations with various doctors, she was diagnosed with Hashimoto's, an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the thyroid, leading to fatigue and other non-life-threatening symptoms. “Despite this diagnosis, I just lived with these challenges and continued to see my primary care doctor yearly,” said Misty.

However, a pivotal moment arrived when Misty began working with Dr. Bobby Rampp, endocrine surgeon at Ascension Saint Thomas Rutherford. "I shared my symptoms and the struggles I'd been facing for many years with Dr. Rampp," said Misty. "After examining my throat, he confidently suggested removing my thyroid. I was taken aback, never having considered this as an option." After thoughtful consideration over a few days, Misty decided to undergo the surgery.

Since the procedure, Misty has not experienced any choking episodes, her snoring has subsided, and she now experiences a level of energy she hadn't known for two decades. "Everything went seamlessly," said Misty. "I had my surgery on a Friday and was back to work the following Monday." Misty attributes her health and well-being to the outstanding care she received, grateful for being in the right place at the right time as a medical assistant to Dr. Rampp.

This success story sheds light on the importance of awareness and early intervention in thyroid health, especially considering that an estimated 20 million Americans, like Misty, have some form of thyroid disease and women, in particular, are five to eight times more likely than men to experience thyroid problems.