There is not enough praise that I could ever give Dr. Fontaine and his staff, and the the staff on 3 N. Believe me when I say they are my Guardian Angels. A big shout out to Moffit
As a lifelong writer/editor, I am having a hard time putting into words how I feel about the experience I had with Dr. Fontaine and Moffitt Cancer Center. How do you describe your feelings about someone who has literally saved your life and does the same for others day after day? I do know I am full of gratitude for Dr. Fontaine and his team and I pray he has many more years to practice his superior skills and caring ways for the benefit of many others!
We had a great experience at Moffitt with Joseph Garrett and Dr Fontaine. I really appreciated Dr. Fontaine’s positive but genuine concern for my situation.
I am a four year survivor of esophageal cancer. I had the Ivor Lewis surgery performed by Dr. Fontaine at Moffitt Hospital on September 1, 2015. Dr. Fontaine and his team did an excellent job caring for me during and after this extremely complicated surgery. Recovery is slow with many bumps along the way, but I tried to keep active by walking every day and gaining muscle strength by visiting a gym 3 times a week. I maintain my weight by eating 3 small meals and multiple snacks each day because of the small stomach after surgery. Because of the removal of the sphincter muscle, I need to sleep in a steep incline rather than flat. I found that sleeping on a recliner works well for me along with a daily dose of Nexium. I am very grateful for the knowledge and skill of Dr. Fontaine and his team as they cared for me during this illness. I am so thankful to God for directing me to Dr. Fontaine and Moffitt Cancer Center!
I received the pathology of a small spot in the upper part of my left lung on October 17, 2019. It was cancer. I called the Moffitt Center the 18th., and they scheduled me an appointment on the 30th. I specifically requested Dr. Fontaine because the web search I had conducted showed that he was a leader in robotics surgery for lung cancer. Prior to my visit to the center I received a packet of specific instructions how to get to the center, where to park, who I would see, what to bring, a list of accommodations, even what elevator to take. From the moment my wife and I arrived for my appointment we were treated with courtesy, kindness and attention. Absolutely everyone we came in contact with, from parking attendants, receptionists, cafeteria workers, custodial staff, techs, nurses and doctors gave the same professional care. After seeing Dr. Fontaine and team, finding out I was a candidate for robotic surgery I was scheduled for surgery exactly 1 week from the appointment date. The day of the surgery l really appreciated the information given to me explaining exactly what would take place through the procedure and what to expect. The surgery went beautifully, the part of the lung where the cancer was located was successfully excised. After surgery I was placed in a private hospital room with a nursing staff that really paid attention to patient’s health and needs. They allowed, even encouraged, my wife to stay with me as long as she wanted. They would have provided a cot for her if she wanted to stay in the room with me, that was unnecessary because I had little discomfort and such excellent care. I was released after only 2 nights in the hospital. They scheduled a follow up appointment 2 weeks from surgery. Dr. Fontaine explained in detail the final pathology and the excellent prognosis going forward.
Dr Fontaine and his team are the best! When I was diagnosed with lung cancer 6 months ago, I thought my life was over. I was told my cancer was not operable. I was prescribed chemotherapy and suffered many side effects of chemotherapy which made me feel worse and depressed. When I came to Moffitt Cancer Center for a second opinion and saw Dr. Fontaine, he gave me hope. He was able to perform a complex surgery and removed completely my lung cancer. Dr. Fontaine and his team truly are top notch experts in lung surgery. .
I was referred to Dr Fontaine as a second opinion from the Tampa VA. From the beginning introduction through the final follow-up it was obvious I was in the right place and in very capable hands. Dr Fontaine was direct and took the time to explain everything about my lung cancer. What he would do and how he would do it. The timing was very quick and within days I was having the surgery. The hospital itself was great and very accommodating to my family. Dr Fontaine’s team is absolutely great. Always there for you, smiling and explaining and answering any questions you or your family might have. Now I am cancer free and will always be grateful to Dr Fontaine and his team. If you are facing the unfortunate decision dealing with lung cancer don’t hesitate to see Dr Fontaine and his team. You will start feeling better immediately.
When I was first diagnosed with lung cancer, I went to see an oncologist at Florida Cancer Specialist. I was told it could not be removed with surgery. So I went to Moffitt for a second opinion. I met with Dr. Fontaine and his team and right away I could tell they were in a league of their own. Dr. Fontaine took the time to go over the images of my CT Scan with me, explaining everything in detail and in a way that I could understand. I had my lung cancer removed robotically and I was in-and-out of the hospital in 3 days. I am now back to work and cancer-free, My family and I are very grateful. We are so glad we made the long drive to Moffitt for a second opinion. It saved my life! When it comes to cancer, no other place in Florida compares to Moffitt Cancer Center. Dr. Fontaine and his team are definitely the best.
There is not enough praise that I could ever give Dr. Fontaine and his staff, and the the staff on 3 N. Believe me when I say they are my Guardian Angels. A big shout out to Moffit
Excellent Doctor and staff who cares how patient is doing defiantly worth seeing him. My 2nd time going through cancer from 1 to 10 rating he is a 10 plus did a great job with my cancer and would recommend him to anyone who needs help with their operation.
After doing a lot of research I found Dr. Fontaine at the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa Florida. I had already had chemo and radiation done and my last hope to get rid of my cancer was surgery. The surgery for esophageal cancer is not a fun surgery and is life changing. Living in Kentucky I could not find any Doctors that did the less invasive type of surgery that Dr. Fontaine offers. I’m very please to say that everything went very well … Dr. Fontaine and his team were excellent, they made me feel like I was there only patient. I would highly recommend them to anyone needing this type of surgery.
I was diagnosed with esophageal cancer and my oncologist in Ft. Lauderdale recommended I have it removed surgically after I finished my chemotherapy. After some research, I quickly realized that an esophagectomy is a very complex and high risk surgery. I flew to Tampa and met with Dr. Fontaine and his team at Moffitt Cancer Center. The minute I met him, I felt I was in good hands. He loves what he does and it shows. He is very well respected and loved by everyone at the hospital. He is an excellent surgeon and a great doctor. I am happy to say that my robotic esophagectomy went very well. Dr. Fontaine and Joe Garrett were phenominal every step of my recovery. My latest scans show that I remain cancer-free. All my gratitude to Dr. Fontaine and his fantastic team.
I truly cannot thank Dr. Scott Antonia and Dr. Fontaine enough for giving me a second chance at life. When I was diagnosed with lung cancer, I was told my cancer was inoperable. After having radiation and chemotherapy in my home town, the tumor was reduced in size and intensity, but still cancerous. Other doctors told me it was in a bad location and surgery was not an option. I met with Dr. Antonia thinking I was pursuing a non-surgical option for further treatment. Dr. Antonia brought Dr. Fontaine in to speak with me. When I met Dr. Fontaine he explained to me that he could remove my right lung and that was my best chance to be cancer free. He explained in detail what the risks were and what I could do to minimize them. He was honest and through. He provided me with a detailed description of what the surgery would entail and what I could expect afterwards. Despite the seriousness of the surgery, I felt that I was in very capable hands. His staff was incredible as well. The care I received from everyone who worked with him was excellent. Joe Garrett was so positive and upbeat while explaining steps of treatment throughout the course of my hospital stay. From pre-op to being released, each highly competent member of the hospital staff treated me with kindness and caring. They were not only highly skilled medical professionals, but caring and compassionate as well. Dr. Fontaine removed 18 lymph nodes that were all clear of cancer. Had I not met this brilliant surgeon, I believe my cancer would have continued to spread to those lymph nodes and beyond. Today, I am cancer free. I hope that my story might help someone else who has been told surgery is not an option or is afraid of surgery in general, because I believe only such a highly skilled, specialized surgeon in a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer center could have performed my surgery and had such spectacular results. To be active again and cancer free is truly amazing!
My sincerest thanks and gratitude to Dr. Fontaine and his team, Dr. Maldonado, Dr. Hernandez and Joe Garrett for preparing me mentally and physically for my Esophagectomy. From the first appointment I was explained fully of what to expect and thru my surgery and recovery they were exceptional in communication and guidance thru all of the processes. I an delighted to say that I had no complications after my surgery and presently all the cancer has been removed. Trust in these fine people and know that you will be receiving the absolute best care. Thank you for having the desire to care and heel, you all have been a true blessing in my life.
Dr. Fontaine and his staff at Moffitt Cancer center are the best in the southeast. Feb. 3,2017 I had a endoscopy and was told I had esophageal cancer. After meeting with a local oncologist she told my wife and I the most important part in my beating this cancer is a positive attitude and the best surgeon we can find. After a lot of prayer I came to the conclusion God had set me on this path for a reason. I asked Him to make it easy so I knew where to go. A few days later my wife was researching caner centers in the southeast, and some were going to take two to four weeks to approve my insurance.That afternoon my wife called Moffitt cancer center and they approved my insurance while she was on the phone. Appointments were made with the Moffitt and a couple of days later Dr. Fontaine called me at home to discus where I was in treatment, he also worked with my local oncologist for my treatment. After chemo and radiation I was given a few weeks to get my strength back.On July 25,2017 I returned to Moffitt Cancer center where Dr. Fontaine and his staff performed an esophagectomy. No live cancer was found in anything removed and now I am considered cancer free. Thank you Dr. Fontaine and your staff.
I truly cannot thank Dr. Fontaine enough for giving me a second chance at life. When I was diagnosed with lung cancer, I was told my cancer was inoperable. After having radiation and chemotherapy, the tumor was reduced in size and intensity, but still cancerous. Other doctors told me it was in a bad location and surgery was not an option. When I met Dr. Fontaine he explained to me that he could remove my right lung and that was my best chance to be cancer free. He explained in detail what the risks were and what I could do to minimize them. He was honest and through. He provided me with a detailed description of what the surgery would entail and what I could expect afterwards. Despite the seriousness of the surgery, I felt that I was in very capable hands. His staff was incredible as well. The care I received from everyone who worked with him was excellent. They were not only highly skilled medical professionals, but caring and compassionate as well. Dr. Fontaine removed 18 lymph nodes that were all clear of cancer. Had I not met this brilliant surgeon, my cancer would have continued to spread to those lymph nodes and beyond. Today, I am cancer free. I hope that my story might help someone else who has been told surgery is not an option or is afraid of surgery in general, because only such a highly skilled, specialized surgeon could have performed my surgery and had such spectacular results. To be active again and cancer free is truly amazing!
Thank you for saving my life.
Dr. Fontaine is a life saver! As a patient and physician myself, I have never met a doctor as adept at explaining the intricate technical aspects of a major operation while sensing and addressing the emotional needs of family and friends. I felt very prepared for my surgery: he did not shy away from a detailed description of my procedure and was forthcoming with all the potential risks and side effects. I visited several other comprehensive cancer centers throughout the nation and discussed my case with other well-recognized physicians; I chose Dr. Fontaine because of his highly-regarded skill, excellent post-operative care, and the wonderful sense of ease that he cultivated during our visits. Exceeding his fantastic reputation, Dr. Fontaine’s bedside manner was warm, his pre-op and post-op care thorough, and his technical skill impeccable. He was incredibly gracious with his time in every interaction. He expedited my remaining workup and was easy to contact with any questions. His nursing staff and front desk made it easy to schedule appointments and simple to communicate concerns. He was highly communicative with my family immediately after the procedure and was available to them many times in the days that followed. The inpatient care was top-notch and my recovery was a breeze because of his attention and the efforts of all the Moffitt team. I would recommended my own family and friends to his care with great confidence.
Dr. Fontaine: There is little I can do or say to express the gratitude of me, my wife, our children and grandchildren for literally not only saving my life, but extending my life as well. In September of 2015, I was diagnosed with stage 4 esophageal cancer. I was told at that time, my illness was incurable with no chance of surgery. My oncologist in Boca Raton, immediately started me on the strongest chemo he could prescribe, after which came 28 sessions of radiation and three more sessions of chemo. To make a long story short, another pet scan showed no signs of spreading and all tests were coming back good. My Oncologist called my family and I to his office and recommend I travel to Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa to meet with Dr. Jacques Fontaine. I made an appointment and had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Fontaine and others and after going over my history, and examining me, he told me I was a candidate for surgery - something called an "esophagectomy". He gave my wife and I a thorough explanation of what the procedure would involve, and I have to say, it scared me to death. At this time, I was feeling good, eating well and gaining weight, so we returned to Boca Raton to think about it. We returned to Moffitt once more about a month later and met with Dr. Fontaine again and this time with Dr. Harris - who performed an endoscopy and told me the only chance I had for a cure was the surgery. Dr. Fontaine explained that he could not perform robotic surgery because of scar tissue resulting from the previous radiation treatment and he would have to make several incisions to complete the surgery. My family and I spent many hours talking about whether or not to have this done, and finally the decision was made to go ahead with the surgery. The surgery was performed at Moffitt on November 10th. 2016 and lasted almost nine hours. I spent ten days in the hospital with my wife and children at my side. Dr. Fontaine came in everyday to check on my along with a team of Drs. he was teaching. I was discharged from the hospital on November 19th. and went home to Boca Raton with a feeding tube inserted in my stomach area. We went back to Moffitt to see Dr. Fontaine approximately two weeks later to remove the staples at which time we were told by Dr. Fontaine that he had removed 23 lymph nodes and that all 23 had come back clear. He went on to tell me I was in fact Cancer free and now to enjoy our life together - more than 50 years. Today is March 8th and I had the pure pleasure of visiting Dr. Fontaine once more to remove the feeding tube. To Dr. Fontaine, and the Nurses who watched over me. You all saved my life through your skill, knowledge and dedication. You are truly a miracle worker Dr. Fontaine and GOD recognizes your skill and dedication as well. There is little else I can say, but I hope my story will help others who may be in a similar situation. I would encourage everyone to meet Dr. Fontaine and place your trust in him. Not only is he e skilled surgeon, he is Blessed. God Bless You Dr; Fontaine and everyone at Moffitt Cancer Center. With much love and respect - Bob and Marie Tauber and family
I had an appointment on Wednesday, January 11, 2017 with Dr. Fontaine. Imagine my surprise when I received a call from him at my office two days prior. He wanted to introduce himself, talk about the operation and most importantly he wanted to know what questions I might have. What a comfortable and reassuring feeling I had after that conversation. On Wednesday, both my wife and I met with Dr. Fontaine and some of this team, and he sat and explained the entire procedure to both of us and again asked if we had any questions. I had the surgery the following morning, and after the surgery, Dr. Fontaine met with my wife and daughter, who drove up from Ft. Myers that morning. Even after 8 hours of surgery, he sat down and explained the whole procedure to my daughter so that she I would know what I had been through. He is an amazing doctor with outstanding bedside manners and treats each patient as if they are his ONLY patient.
I brought my husband to see Dr. Fontaine for a second opinion regarding his lung cancer. Dr. Fontaine took the time to review all our records and explain his situation in detail and in a manner that we could understand things very clearly. It was clearly evident that he is very knowledgeable and an expert in his field. Dr. Fontaine performed his surgery, which we were told by my husband's other doctors was not possible. His team at Moffitt Cancer Center provided us excellent care, and we are very grateful.
Dr. Fontaine does a tremendous job of helping mesothelioma patients and their families get the best treatment options and care.
My husband Anton Zeman had surgery by Dr. Fontaine for esophageal cancer almost two years ago at age 84. He is doing outstandingly well. After being treated with chemo and radiation, his cancer had returned. Surgery was then recommended. His surgery went very well. At this time, he is still cancer free. We were blessed to find this excellent surgeon. We are so grateful. Thank you, Dr Fontaine.
Dr. Fontaine is a great surgeon! He and his staff (especially Joe Garrett), provide outstanding care to their patients. I am so fortunate that I had Dr. Fontaine as my surgeon and the Moffitt team for my post-operative care.
Dr. Fontaine saved my husband's life, and I will be forever grateful. Dr. Fontaine is the best in his field, and I can't say enough about this wonderful man!
