Crucial Catch honoree, Judge Mary Lou Cuellar-Stilo
As part of the NFL’s Crucial Catch initiative to fight cancer through early detection and risk reduction, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and AdventHealth recognized Judge Mary Lou Cuellar-Stilo, a pancreatic cancer survivor and Hillsborough County Court Judge, during yesterday’s game at Raymond James Stadium.
Nearly two years ago, Mary Lou began experiencing unexplained digestive issues. After seeking medical attention, she received the devastating diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, which is one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat cancers. Her story took a powerful turn thanks to the expert care and guidance she received at AdventHealth.
After attending a cancer support group led by surgeon, Dr. Sharona Ross, with AdventHealth Tampa, Mary Lou found inspiration in the stories of others who had faced similar battles. Dr. Ross emphasized the urgency of surgical intervention in pancreatic cancer cases.
“What’s unique about her story is that pancreatic cancer is thought to be such a deadly disease, but she had a dream to become a judge, and she was elected just before her diagnosis,” said Dr. Ross. “She was initially told her only option was chemotherapy, but in this case surgery was the only true chance for a cure. We have to operate when we can, because the chemotherapy options we have are limited and unpredictable.”
Dr. Ross and her team performed a robotic Whipple procedure, a complex surgery that successfully removed Mary Lou’s cancer. Within days, she was out of the hospital and on the path to recovery. Today, Mary Lou is back to doing what she loves, serving as a full-time county court judge in Hillsborough County.
“I love my job, and I’m looking forward to spending many more holidays with my kids,” Mary Lou said. “I want to share my story so that others know there is hope, there are treatments, and there is support.”
The AdventHealth Goal Getter program highlights people making a difference in their community or overcoming obstacles to achieve amazing goals. This recognition is made possible through the ongoing partnership between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the AdventHealth West Florida Foundation. AdventHealth continues to champion life-saving care, education, and early detection in the fight against cancer. Together, we are raising awareness and driving meaningful change in the lives of patients and families across the region.
The Buccaneers and AdventHealth were honored to spotlight Judge Mary Lou Cuellar-Stilo during the Crucial Catch game, reminding fans and families across the Bay area that early detection, expert care, and unwavering determination can make all the difference in the fight against cancer.