More Time with Dad: Arturo’s Journey to Recovery

Arturo with his wife Carmelita (left) and daughter Maria (right).

In May 2022, Arturo Aveno felt a lump under his chest. He went to his doctor in the Philippines, where he spends half the year, where a CAT scan showed a lesion on his liver. After discussions with his doctor and his family, Arturo travelled back to New Jersey for more tests, including an MRI.

At first, doctors suggested a procedure to block the blood flow going to the tumor to try to stop it from growing. But things changed after Arturo’s daughter, Maria, spoke with her best friend, Theresa. Theresa is a physician assistant at University Hospital and works closely with Dr. Abhishek Kumar, a doctor who specializes in procedure called Y90. It’s a newer, more targeted way to treat liver cancer that doesn’t require major surgery or chemotherapy.

The family decided to seek a second opinion with Dr. Kumar, who told them Arturo was a great candidate for the Y90 treatment. Before asking them to make any decisions, Dr. Kumar joined Arturo and his family on FaceTime to explain how Y90 works and answer any questions they had. This helped them feel calm and confident about their decision to move forward with the procedure.

During Arturo’s treatment, Dr. Kumar and his team were there for the family every step of the way. Their kindness and quick help made a scary time feel more hopeful.

The treatment worked. Arturo regained his strength and is now in remission. He’s back in the Philippines, running his resort and spending time in his garden—his favorite place to be.

For Maria and her family, this outcome has been a true gift. They’re deeply thankful to Dr. Kumar and his amazing team for giving them more time and more special moments with their beloved father.

“We are so blessed to have Dr. Kumar and the whole staff who took care of my husband during his treatment! You all make a difference in the lives of your patients!” – Carmelita, Arturo’s wife

“Dr. Kumar and his team gave us more time with my dad, and for that, I am forever grateful. Thank you to him, PA Theresa (my best friend), head nurse Gina, and the rest of his staff!” – Maria, Arturo’s daughter