Local Woman Credits Lower Keys Medical Center for Lifesaving Care

9/8/2025

Angela Berube is a local business owner in the Lower Keys. After genetic testing indicated she was at high risk of breast cancer, she wanted to be proactive about her health. However, following surgeries and reconstruction on the mainland, she developed complications and a severe, resistant infection. Throughout several weeks of treatment at home with oral antibiotics, her condition continued deteriorating.

Unable to get in touch with her surgeon in Miami, Berube went to the Lower Keys Medical Center emergency department after consulting an acquaintance, LKMC hospitalist Dr. Lori Leonhardt. Berube was no stranger to Lower Keys Medical Center—she worked in the facility a few years ago, but never had more than routine care there.

Berube received care in the ER and was admitted. She credits the hospitalist’s amazing communication and attention as being pivotal in her care. "After treating my infection with IV antibiotics for a few days, Dr. Leonhardt looped in a local surgeon for a consultation. I had a successful emergency surgery at LKMC less than 18 hours after my rupture, helping my mindset shift from being afraid I might die to feeling secure that I was in great hands."

For eight days, Berube was an inpatient and was overwhelmed by the friendly, personal and warm care she received, a sharp contrast from the larger institution where she was initially treated on the mainland.

"All of the doctors and nurses were so wonderful - they checked in on me daily and made sure that I knew the plan going forward. From the moment I arrived at LKMC in the ER to the day I was discharged home, I was treated like I mattered. I've had quite a few hospital stays in the past year on the mainland, but I have never felt this cared for. What I've experienced here from everyone —food services, housekeeping, the inpatient unit, all the physicians, including Dr. Samantha Sterkel and Dr. Leonhardt—made me feel seen, heard, personally cared for and safe. The personal attention, kindness, and urgency made it seem that I was the only priority, although everyone was caring for other patients as well."

Following her treatment and surgery at LKMC, Berube was discharged with a clean bill of health and a new appreciation for routine daily activities.

"I'm excited to get back to the things I love: getting back to work in my business, traveling to see our children and grandchildren, swimming in the pool with my husband and just enjoying this beautiful island."

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