Around 100,000 people in the U.S. develop hyperparathyroidism every year. The disease, which affects the small parathyroid glands that lie next to the thyroid in the neck, carries with it many symptoms such as such as bone pain or tenderness, fragile bones, depression, forgetfulness, fatigue, frequent or excess urination, and kidney stones.
Hyperparathyroidism is not just prevalent in the U.S., it is a global disease. Shahzeb Anwer developed hyperparathyroisim as an adolescent and suffered about two kidney stones every year as a result, in addition to other symptoms.
Anwer knew that he needed surgical treatment for his disease– a parathyroidectomy–and wanted to see an expert. So, he traveled over 7,000 miles from Pakistan to have surgery with Chief of the UAB Section of Endocrine Surgery Brenessa Lindeman, M.D., MEHP, FACS.
“I am now a huge fan of UAB and Dr. Brenessa Lindeman, who has a large volume of these cases every year,” said Anwer. “Not only was UAB a cost effective, but I felt safe having the procedure done at with a healthcare provider who had all of the resources of an academic teaching hospital.”
While in Birmingham for his procedure, Anwer got to know the city, finding his local haunts and favorite spots. He came to love all that Birmingham had to offer and was sad to depart when he was recovered from his surgery.
But, Anwer had an exciting reason to return to Pakistan: he was getting married. In fact, Anwer came to love his care team and the city of Birmingham so much that he extended a wedding invite to his surgical team as well as the entire city.
“All of my care team was exceptional and brilliant,” said Anwer. “I was so grateful to be in capable hands and wanted to celebrate with each person who played a role in my treatment.”
Lindeman was deeply honored to have been invited to Anwer’s wedding, which unfortunately fell during the American Association of Endocrine Surgeons annual meeting.
“Anwer was such a special patient for us,” said Lindeman. “We enjoyed being able to get to know him while he spent time here in Birmingham, and it has been wonderful to watch him become passionate about spreading awareness of hyperparathyroidism internationally.”
In fact, Anwer published a white paper in Pakistan that outlines his experience with a parathyroidectomy and what he has learned throughout the process. He has also been active in Facebook groups that are designed to provide support for those with hyperparathyroidism.
Though the surgery brought some immediate improvements for Anwer, he noted his full recovery is a slow and steady process.
“I have realized that this is a slow and steady process that will take some time since I have had this disease for so long,” said Anwer. “Relieving all of my symptoms is the ultimate goal, and my incredible surgeons and care team keeps a check on me, which is wonderful and unlike other surgeons. I am getting better day by day.”