Cancer Battle Inspires OhioHealth Berger Hospital Employees to Give Back
For nearly two years, Keith Scott thought his mild groin pain was just a lingering muscle strain. But in May 2023, at the urging of his wife, Nicole, he visited the emergency department at OhioHealth Berger Hospital. A CT scan revealed a life-changing diagnosis: kidney cancer.
Keith, who works in maintenance at Berger Hospital and Nicole, who also works for OhioHealth, were suddenly thrust into an unexpected journey, one marked by resilience, community support and a newfound purpose.
The news came as a shock to Keith, Nicole and their loved ones. Their son and daughter-in-law were expecting a baby, and their world suddenly felt uncertain. “I took time off to process everything, and our family and hospital team rallied around us,” Nicole said.
Keith underwent a successful partial nephrectomy performed by Edward Pewitt, MD of Central Ohio Urology Group, removing the mass from his kidney and giving him a new lease on life. Today, under the continued care of OhioHealth internist Arnold Palmer, DO, Keith is cancer-free and focused on turning his experience into a way to support others.
Inspired by the overwhelming support they received from their Berger Hospital colleagues, church and loved ones, Keith and Nicole launched Keith’s Cause, an initiative that provides care packages to hospital patients twice a year. Their goal is simple: to bring warmth, comfort, and hope to those facing chronic illness.
“We were so lucky to have an army of people supporting us,” Nicole said. “But we’ve met many people through this journey who don’t have that. Fundraising is important, but so is simply showing up for people in their darkest days.”
Keith’s story also sparked change beyond patient support. Local nurse practitioner Bobi Carpenter, CNP, was inspired to advocate for better kidney cancer detection, pushing for earlier screenings in at-risk patients.
“I’m a perfect example of why early detection is important,” Keith said. “If I had caught it sooner, I could have likely avoided surgery.”
Nicole has taken her advocacy to a national level, lobbying for increased kidney cancer research funding, improved telehealth access, and better support for veterans—who face a higher risk of kidney disease.
Looking back, Keith regrets waiting two years to seek help. He urges others not to let fear or embarrassment delay care. His message is clear:
- Don’t ignore symptoms.
- Don’t let fear keep you from getting care.
- Seek professional help for both physical and emotional health.
Keith and Nicole’s journey from hospital employees to patient advocates is a testament to the power of early detection, community support, and turning hardship into purpose. “We were never alone in this,” Keith said. “Now, we want to make sure others aren’t either.”
The Scotts are hosting the “Keith’s Cause 5K” this spring to support the Kidney Cancer Association. Visit https://charity.pledgeit.org/t/OWVxOy9UpM for more information.
