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Radiology’s Mary Platt inspires coworkers

by Cindy Abole
Public Relations
In Hebrew, her name means “perfect one.” And in the eyes of many of her friends and coworkers, Mary is just that.

Radiology's Mary Platt hugs friends, Phyllis Martin, left, Dr. Lilless Shilling, and Susie Hall during Camp Bluebird last November at Camp St. Christopher.

To many of her colleagues and friends, Radiology's Mary Platt is an effective clinical coordinator. But lately, Mary is better known for her graceful strength, courage and joie de vivre as a breast cancer survivor.

While struggling to learn and cope with the disease, she befriended many people along her incredible journey. Some of her closest friendships were made at work, especially among two radiology coworkers, Susie Hall and Phyllis Martin. Together, the trio formed a close, supportive relationship bonded by an unexpected foe—cancer. In 1999, Hall was diagnosed with throat and neck cancer, while Martin struggled with the effects of  breast cancer. In both cases, Platt became their advocate and walking beacon of hope.

“Mary has been such an inspiration,” said Hall. “In the shadow of all of my fears and uncertainties, Mary has always been there.”

Martin, who is now retired and living in Beaufort, underwent a double mastectomy in 1999. She credits Platt for sharing her strength and compassion.

“Mary has always been one to possess a lot of hope,” Martin said. “She's always focused on the bright spots in life and helped prove that adversity doesn't defeat you.”

For the last several years, the threesome have participated in Camp Bluebird, a special program sponsored by Hollings Cancer Center that teaches coping skills and support for adults living with cancer and survivors. There, she has taught others with cancer through her compassionate nature and faith.

Friend and former undergraduate health sciences advisor Lilless Shilling, Ph.D.,  also sings Platt’s praises. “Mary shows a calm appreciation of life,” said Shilling, who helped guide Platt through night school where she earned her master's degree in health science education. “Mary’s warm personality, optimism and dedication are all testaments of her character.”

Last August, Platt learned that her cancer had returned. Despite medical complications and eight hospitalizations, she chose to deal with the recurrence with a sense of peace and quiet acceptance. She has received the continued support of friends and coworkers through telephone calls, cards, flowers and other sentiments. 

During her latest hospital discharge on Jan. 18, a weak but smiling Platt shared a stirring moment as she bid her good-byes with flying kisses to a gathered crowd of staff and colleagues before her trip home. 

“Despite what they’ve gone through, Mary and Eugene (her husband) have shown that their faith in God is unwavering,” said Rayna Kneuper-Hall, M.D., Hollings Cancer Center oncologist. “She’s an incredible woman and I’d like to say it is an honor and privilege for me to know them.”

Editor's note: At MUSC, heroes abound. They exist in the form of caregivers (both professional and volunteers), faculty, students and staff. The Catalyst’s MUSC Heroes is a new column that offers employees and staff the opportunity to recognize MUSC’s everyday heroes throughout campus. Send a brief note or e-mail about your MUSC hero along with your name and office phone number to The Catalyst, Office of Public Relations or via e-mail at catalyst@musc.edu.