Gisela Hahne Bentele has always taken her happiness into her own hands. When she was advised to be patient about a skin lesion, she turned instead to the USZ's teledermatology consultation service. He diagnosed melanoma and was able to remove it quickly. Today she is in perfect health.
I’ve been through quite a lot in my life—the revolution in Paraguay, for example, or starting several of my own businesses. I’ve always been a critical thinker and rely on my gut feeling. I question everything. So I didn’t give up, even when I was advised to wait and see about a skin spot.
"I felt like I was in good hands."
I did some research online and came across the USZ’s teledermatology consultation service. Shortly after I uploaded a photo of the spot there, the attending physician contacted me. I felt very well taken care of there. The doctor suspected melanoma, examined me, and sent in a sample. Then it was just a matter of waiting for the results. When you’re stuck in limbo like that and don’t know what to do next, it’s easy to get discouraged. Instead, I said to my husband, “Let’s pack our bags and go away!” I exercised a lot, meditated, and focused on things that were good for me.
Suspicion Confirmed: Melanoma
When I got back, the suspicion of cancer was confirmed. But he hadn’t quite penetrated deeply enough yet. The spot was removed, and I didn’t have to undergo chemotherapy. I am very grateful that I was able to find help so quickly and that my concerns were taken seriously. Today, even after several follow-up exams, I am cancer-free and in excellent health. I wish more people—especially those my age—would take charge of their own health. I take good care of myself, eat a healthy diet, and don’t drink alcohol or smoke. And consider alternative therapies as well.
"I still have a lot of plans!"
I lived a full life. And I still have a lot planned. I’m currently writing a family history, and in the process I’m meeting lots of new people and learning fascinating things about my ancestors. I really enjoy traveling and am often on the road. I was surprised that an illness entered my life so suddenly. But I try to find something positive in every situation, and then I ask myself, “What is this experience trying to tell me?” Because I’m convinced that there are no coincidences in life.
Online Skin Check: Quick and Convenient from Home
Please submit a photo of the affected area of skin and fill out the short questionnaire. Within 24 hours on business days, you’ll receive a reliable diagnosis from our experts. Clicking the button will take you to our partner’s external platform, where you can securely enter your information. These are forwarded to the USZ in a secure manner for further evaluation.