A Doctor’s Dedication, A Patient’s Gratitude: David’s Story

posted on: 4/10/2025 3:16:05 PM

After enduring recurring bouts of diverticulitis, David, a devoted minister, husband and father, underwent planned surgery out of town. But just days into recovery at home in New Bremen, he faced a life-threatening emergency. Stabilized at an outlying hospital, David was transferred to Lima Memorial where he underwent emergency surgery that saved his life. The next day, Dr. Selma El Haj of LMHS Surgical Specialists met David to continue his care—a moment that marked the beginning of an extraordinary doctor-patient relationship.

“I've done all my follow up with Dr. El Hag,” David shares with confidence. “Her concern, care and compassion are off the charts. She remembers personal things about us, and we very much consider her a friend now.”

Dr. El Haj has provided expert surgical care for David along with unmatched compassion. In the fight against diverticulitis and its challenges (five colorectal surgeries in and outside of Lima over the span of seven months) Dr. El Hag has stayed with David and his family through it all, personally checking in on him and making sure they always feel seen, heard and supported. When David’s final surgery turned out to be more complex than expected, Dr. El Hag never left his side, showing the dedication that defines Lima Memorial’s approach to care.

“I was told she didn't take a break or leave,” shares David. “She said, ‘I'm not leaving my patient.’ That truly tells you something about her.”

To schedule a surgical consultation with Dr. El Hag, please call LMHS Surgical Specialists at 419-998-8207—no referral needed.

David continues to manage his condition with the support of Dr. El Hag, her team and the Lima Memorial Family. David and his family are truly grateful for all the care they have received with our team, sharing with a smile, “They have been absolutely terrific.”

(When we asked David if we could take his photo, he immediately requested to take it with Dr. El Haj, referencing their striking height difference—one of their many inside jokes).

To schedule a surgical consultation with Dr. El Hag, please call LMHS Surgical Specialists at 419-998-8207—no referral needed.