Hello, my name is Russell Cantrell, MD. I have been a practicing physician for over 30 years.

Throughout my career evaluating patients in my practice of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, I have met many kind and wonderful people. These include not only patients but also physicians, nurse case managers, attorneys, and claims adjusters. Every one of them has a unique story that, at various times, includes triumph but also illness and loss.

I would like to share one such story and ask for your help. I first met Barb Ellis, nurse case manager, many years ago in the context of work, but we quickly became good friends. She loves her work and the connections she builds with her patients, physicians, and adjusters.

Barb was diagnosed with stage 4 diffuse B cell lymphoma in October 2023. What began as an isolated mass in her hip later evolved to more widespread disease despite radiation treatments and chemotherapy. She is hoping to proceed in the next few weeks with an expensive, but more definitive, treatment of her lymphoma so she can get back to her work doing what she has loved to do for so many years.

While Barb is focused on her health and recovery, it has come to my attention that she has incurred substantial expenses that are beyond her current means since she has not been able to work for over eight months. I am hoping that you can find it in your heart to donate and no amount is too small. Every dollar raised will help her in her road to recovery so that she can return to work, spend time with her grandkids, and reunite with her dog, Hank.

Thank you in advance for your generosity,

Russ Cantrell, MD