Through Tampa General Hospital’s Global Medicine Program, Mercedes Marmorek traveled from Argentina for specialized parathyroid care and found relief from years of symptoms caused by primary hyperparathyroidism.
July 27, 2026 – After years of undiagnosed symptoms from primary hyperparathyroidism, 49-year-old Mercedes Marmorek traveled from Argentina to Tampa General Hospital (TGH) for complex specialized care she could not find anywhere else in the world. Through TGH’s Global Medicine Program, she connected with Dr. Jose Lopez and underwent a life-changing parathyroidectomy August 18, 2025.
For years, Mercedes endured exhaustion, bone pain and anxiety. “I felt like I was living in a fog,” she said. Despite consulting multiple specialists, she couldn’t get answers. Misdiagnosed and sent for psychiatric treatment, her actual condition, primary hyperparathyroidism, was only identified after years of searching for a proper diagnosis. But no surgeon in Argentina could perform the minimally invasive procedure she needed.
“I knew I had to look elsewhere,” Mercedes explained.
Searching online, Mercedes discovered Tampa General Hospital’s Parathyroid & Thyroid Institute. With more than 13,000 parathyroidectomies performed, Dr. Jose Lopez and Dr. Douglas Politz are among the most experienced parathyroid surgeons in the world.
“When I read about the success rates, I knew I could trust them,” Mercedes said.
TGH’s Global Medicine Program offered a clear path forward. A virtual consultation with Dr. Lopez confirmed she was a candidate for surgery, and the program’s transparent self-pay packages made planning her care simple.
A Surgery That Changed Everything
Mercedes flew to Tampa for her procedure on August 18, 2025. Using his years of advanced surgical expertise and intraoperative nuclear mapping, Dr. Lopez located two malfunctioning parathyroid glands that previous scans had missed. “If I had gone elsewhere, one of the glands might have been left untreated,” Mercedes shared.
At TGH, surgeons examine all four parathyroid glands during every procedure to ensure comprehensive care. This thorough approach set TGH apart and made all the difference for Mercedes.
Life After Surgery: A New Beginning
Post-surgery, Mercedes felt like herself again. Her fatigue, anxiety and pain vanished. “I feel like I’ve been given my life back,” she said. Mercedes returned to leading her opera company, grateful for the advanced care, compassionate team and seamless experience at TGH.
“From my first call to follow-up, everything was easy and clear,” Mercedes said. “I finally feel free.”
Geography Shouldn’t Limit Care
Mercedes is one of many international patients benefiting from TGH’s expertise. Tampa General’s Global Medicine Program supports patients worldwide with support with travel logistics, transparent financial options and personalized care coordination.
Take the First Step Toward Answers
If you or a loved one struggles with unexplained symptoms or a diagnosed parathyroid condition, TGH’s Global Medicine Program can help. Call (866) 839-9828 or complete the Patient Intake Form to start your journey to better care.
