Greg Murray is a grateful patient, not only for the care that he continues to receive at Royal Inland Hospital, but particularly to Dr. Suman Dehsi, Cardiologist at RIH, who was instrumental to an early diagnosis and treatment.
Greg’s journey began in 2008 when he followed his future wife, Chantelle, to Kamloops from Burns Lake. The two settled in the community they loved, were married, had 2 children (Lilah in 2013 and Kaliyah in 2016), and began a normal, happy life together as a family. All went well until Greg started feeling unwell in January of 2018, after having suffered the flu over the previous holiday season.
He was diagnosed with pericarditis, an inflammation of the tissue that surrounds the heart, and was started on a treatment plan. However, after 9 months it was evident that the treatments (primarily doses of Colchicine) were not as effective as hoped; Greg was still plagued with pericarditis, chest pains and difficulty breathing. His Cardiologist, Dr. Suman Dehsi, suspected Lupus, an autoimmune disorder where the body attacks its own tissues and organs, and ordered specific tests for inflammation markers and potential autoimmune issues.
A few months later and after a visit to Rheumatologist, Dr. Nancy Hudson, it was determined that Greg did indeed have Lupus. He was put on an antimalarial, Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), Azathioprine (Imuran), an immune system-suppressing drug, and Prednisone, a powerful anti-inflammatory (on and off as needed). He continues taking the medications to this day. He also comes to RIH once a month for blood tests and other check-ups.
“I am so thankful to the Cardiology team, particularly Dr. Dehsi, as the team spent a lot of time with me, asking very detailed questions, and I believe that made a difference. In addition, Dr. Dehsi ordered extra tests and was able to refer me to another specialist within a week, which meant that my treatment for SLE Lupus started very soon. This made a huge difference.” Greg explained. “I am also grateful for the Rapid Access Clinic, which has been very useful for me”, he added.
Greg’s condition is lifelong but episodic, so he is hopeful that he will go into remission. In addition to his physical ailments, he is also sensitive to light and has to reduce stress in his life as much as possible. He is able to work part-time and remains positive, focusing on family and friends and remaining grateful for the care that he receives at RIH.
If you are a patient or family member and would like to share your story, we would love to hear from you! You can either fill in the form or contact our office at 250-314-2325.
