Retired Tonawanda resident, Paul Benn, has a can-do spirit. When his doctors at Roswell Park offered him the chance to be the first patient with bladder cancer to be treated using a surgical robot, Paul simply said, "Let's go."

"Being diagnosed with cancer, you think I would be worried. But I was prepared and ready for the operation. I knew I was in good hands at Roswell Park," Paul recalls.
 Roswell Park was one of the first facilities in the United States to offer robotic assisted surgery for bladder cancer. The pioneering technique offers patients a less invasive treatment option that has several advantages over traditional open surgery. Most patients experience less pain, stay fewer days in the hospital and recover more quickly.
"Before the surgery, my daughter who is a nurse went with me to every doctor visit. We asked all kinds of questions. My doctor, Dr. Guru, really puts your mind at ease. After the surgery, I couldn't believe how quickly I was back following my daily routine," Paul recalls.   

A widower of 14 years, Paul is a man always in motion. After a few weeks of recovery, this active retiree was back swinging a golf club. "I can't stand sitting around the house. When you are retired and alone, it is even more important to get out and stay busy," says Paul.

Paul's passion for golf leads him to a part-time job running a local pro shop. But that wasn't enough, so he took on a part-time position as a transporter for a local car rental company. He also talks to other bladder cancer patients about the robotic surgery, helping them to cope with their fears and concerns. "I am a realist. I understand how difficult cancer can be. But I believe you deal with the cards that are handed to you.  In my case, the cards were lucky because I received one of the best treatments available. I'm so thankful I went through the surgery," Paul remarks.

Today, Paul continues to work two jobs and spends time with his other daughter in Texas where he can get in a few rounds of golf during the off season.

Paul's message of hope for the holidays: "I believe you can help yourself by helping others, staying active and working. Most importantly, never give up hope."