Silver Cross Endoscopy Center is Perfect Fit for Homer Glen Family

For Homer Glen mom Jennifer Jeffries, the outpatient Silver Cross Endoscopy Center is the perfect fit for her family of five children, ages 16 to 22. 

That’s because Jeffries, a two-year colon cancer survivor, has a genetic condition known as Lynch Syndrome that puts her children at high risk for developing colon and other forms of cancer. Regular screening, beginning at age 20, is critical for early detection. 

Two of Jeffries’ sons have already had colonoscopies at Silver Cross – one at the new center and one at the hospital. A third will have a screening colonoscopy when he comes home for Thanksgiving break. Their preferred venue: the new Silver Cross Endoscopy Center that opened on the hospital’s campus in July. The bright, open floor plan, easy in-and-out access, and welcoming staff have definitely been a hit for Jeffries and her children. 

“For kids, going to the outpatient center isn’t as overwhelming as the hospital setting,” the 50-year-old teacher explains. “I would definitely recommend it.” 

Jeffries also prefers the convenience for her elderly mother. “The parking is so close to the entrance, it’s a lot easier for seniors,” she added. “They don’t have to walk as far.”

Conveniently located on the Silver Cross campus, just east of the hospital at 678 Cedar Crossing Drive, the center offers colonoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy to screen for colorectal cancer, and upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (upper GI) to diagnose and treat problems of the esophagus, stomach and upper portion of the small intestine. It features one procedure room now (with the ability to expand to three procedure rooms in the future), and nine pre-and post-procedure patient bays. 

That’s in addition to four at the Advanced Endoscopy Center on the second floor of the hospital. 

According to the National Cancer Institute, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of death from cancer in the United States. Yet, 90% of colon cancers can be cured when found and treated at an early stage, so regular screenings are important. 

That’s why the American Cancer Society recommends that beginning at age 45, men and women should have a colonoscopy every 10 years. Colonoscopy can catch cancer early, when it’s most treatable, and help prevent cancer by finding abnormal growths called polyps that can turn into cancer. Without a colonoscopy, you may never know you have it. 

Thankfully for Jeffries, her cancer was caught at an earlier stage. Successful surgery at Silver Cross followed by regular CT scans and blood tests gives peace of mind to the busy wife and mother, who recently celebrated two years as a cancer survivor. 

Knowing that her children are also being screened gives Jeffries added reassurance, especially when it’s in a setting that meets their needs. “It’s just so convenient to be able to get in and out,” she added. “Everyone there is so friendly. It’s a good fit for my kids.” 

Many other patients feel the same. In fact, patient satisfaction scores related to endoscopy services at Silver Cross are in the top 10 percent of the nation, with more than 90 percent of endoscopy patients stating they would recommend the Silver Cross Endoscopy Center to family and friends. 

Call 1-888-660-HEAL (4325) or visit www.silvercross.org for a referral to a physician on the Silver Cross Medical Staff who performs colonoscopies.