Twice a survivor: Minnesota artist beats leukemia with Essentia Health’s compassionate care

September is Leukemia Cancer Awareness Month, a cancer that caused an estimated 57,000 deaths in the United States last year alone, according to Blood Cancer United.

Charlene Buescher, a 69-year-old artist and retired teacher from Big Falls, Minnesota, survived it not once, but twice in the last few years. She attributes that survival to her resilience and the exceptional care provided by Essentia Health.

In 2016, Charlene noticed her gums bleeding while flossing. An avid flosser, she was concerned right away because her gums never bled.

She scheduled an appointment at her local clinic, where low platelet counts prompted a referral to Essentia Health-Duluth. There, Dr. Jonathan Sande diagnosed her with leukemia, a diagnosis that came just in time.

“I wouldn’t have made it if I’d waited longer,” Charlene recalls.

She underwent five weeks of chemotherapy at Essentia Health-St. Mary’s Medical Center, where she felt profoundly supported.

“Everyone, from the doctors to the staff who cleaned my room, was absolutely wonderful. I’ve never felt more cared for in my life,” she says.

Charlene went into remission, but in 2018 leukemia returned. Despite feeling discouraged and alone, the staff at Essentia became her family.

“They treated me like I was their own,” she shares.

The nursing team’s compassion shone through when they voted her their “Christmas person” post-treatment, sending gifts to her home. “It touched me deeply that they thought of me,” Charlene says.

Now in remission since January 2019, Charlene visits Essentia’s International Falls clinic for follow-ups. She goes to St. Mary’s in Duluth for ablation.

“The human element at Essentia makes a huge difference,” she says.

Currently, Charlene paints local flora and fauna at Rainy Lake, donating her artwork to the Essentia Health-International Falls Clinic as a thank-you.

Leukemia, a cancer of the blood and bone marrow, affects thousands annually, with symptoms like fatigue, frequent infections and unexplained bleeding often signaling its presence. Early detection, as in Charlene’s case, is critical. St. Mary’s Medical Center offers comprehensive leukemia care, led by a team of experienced and compassionate experts.

Treatment often involves chemotherapy, targeted therapies or stem cell transplants, tailored to the patient’s specific leukemia type. Essentia’s multidisciplinary approach integrates advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment plans and supportive care, ensuring patients receive holistic treatment.

Charlene’s story underscores the power of early intervention and the unmatched care at Essentia.

“If you ever get sick, go to Essentia,” she said. “Nothing compares to the care they provide.”

Charlene continues to get her care at several Essentia clinics in the region. And while Dr. Sande is no longer with the organization, she is happy to continue being cared for by Dr. Daniel Nikcevich. She has been so pleased with her care that she’s donated several pieces of artwork to the Essentia Health-International Falls Clinic as a way to thank Essentia for the care she has been provided.

St. Mary’s, a leader in cancer care, is committed to advancing leukemia treatment through research, clinical trials and compassionate care. For more information on leukemia or to schedule a consultation, visit EssentiaHealth.org or call (218) 786-4000.