The first thing people notice about Bob Eesley is his infectious laugh. Not only is it the defining characteristic of his warm personality. It’s also an indication of how much he loves life and the people in it. At 92, the retired tax preparer and business owner is grateful to be able to enjoy each day. With four children, six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, there’s plenty to live for.
“I have faith in God that he has kept me here for a reason. I’m healthy, and I’ve been able to maintain my mobility,” he said. Considering the health issues he’s had to overcome, it’s hard to imagine anyone with a more positive attitude.
Gratitude for Mount Carmel
In 2006, Bob noticed a bump on his upper arm. He didn’t think much about it, but fortunately he had it removed and biopsied. The results revealed that Bob had a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer known as Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC), and the doctors gave him anywhere from 2 months to 2 years to live. Although most people do not have good outcomes with Merkel Cell, 16 years have passed since that initial diagnosis. Bob has clearly defied the odds.
Today he extends much of his gratitude to his oncologist and his plastic surgeon; and the care he received at Mount Carmel. From 2006 to 2022, Bob underwent 20 procedures to remove the cancer, along with a host of radiation and chemotherapy treatments.
As an expression of his gratitude, Bob has generously given back to Mount Carmel Cancer Services, and the Cancer Conference Room at Mount Carmel Grove City has been named in loving memory of his wife Jean. “This was something to honor Jean, to support Mount Carmel coming into the Grove City community, and to leave the Eesley name,” he said.
Bob has also made numerous financial gifts to the Mount Carmel Guardian Angel program, which honors various caregivers for their kind and professional care. During his latest hospital experience in the fall of 2021, Bob gave a financial gift to the Guardian Angel program in honor of “all the Bettys on the floor.” With so many nurses coming and going, Bob found it challenging to remember all of their names, so he decided to call them all Betty.
In addition to the cancer, Bob has had other personal experiences with Mount Carmel, including three back surgeries, two prostate surgeries, and most recently, a broken ankle. “My experience with Mount Carmel has been good all the way around,” he said, adding that Mount Carmel has been his chosen healthcare provider for 80 years.
“I extend my gratitude to my oncologist and plastic surgeon; and the entire Mount Carmel cancer team who provided me with exceptional care that has been successful.”
- Bob Eesley
Click here to learn about the Mount Carmel Foundation.