Brad Leathers, 68, of south Forsyth County, was diagnosed with lung cancer in early 2025 — through a series of medical appointments that had nothing to do with his lungs. 

In October 2024, because of his long history of kidney stones, Brad’s long-time kidney doctor, Dr. Jerry Yuan (now retired) of Georgia Urology, ordered updated imaging of his kidneys. His primary care provider, Dr. Hemen Padhiar, also stayed informed. Since Brad was due for cardiac screening, Dr. Padhiar ordered a cardiac calcium CT scan at Northside Hospital Forsyth.

The scan revealed a significantly elevated calcium score, and Brad was referred for further cardiac evaluation.

Brad was also experiencing episodes of atrial fibrillation, and additional testing revealed a 70% blockage in his left anterior descending, or widowmaker, artery. During that same appointment, he was asked about a spot on his lung, prompting Brad to call Dr. Padhiar immediately.

“Dr. Padhiar confirmed there was a tiny spot on one lung, but he wasn’t concerned because it is not unusual for a person my age to have a small spot on a lung scan,” Brad explained. “Out of caution, he referred me to a pulmonologist.”

In mid-January 2025, Brad saw Dr. Usha Nayak, a pulmonologist with Northside Pulmonary & Sleep Medicine, who ordered additional imaging and a biopsy. The biopsy confirmed lung cancer.

“When I received the diagnosis, I thought I might be a goner,” Brad said. “But I was told it had been caught very early and could likely be treated with a limited lung resection rather than removing an entire lobe.”

Because of Brad’s heart condition, his care team coordinated closely to determine the safest approach. An initial attempt at surgery was postponed after an upper respiratory infection was discovered, allowing time for treatment with antibiotics before proceeding.

A few weeks later, Brad returned for surgery, and the lung mass was successfully removed using robotic-assisted minimally invasive surgery at Northside Hospital Atlanta.

“Northside Hospital did a phenomenal job caring for me from start to finish,” Brad said. “Every time I went through the door at a Northside facility, I was struck by how much these people care. They are internally driven to genuinely care for people, and you simply cannot pay for that.”

An entrepreneur, Brad enjoys playing golf, riding motorcycles and spending time with his family, including his seven grandchildren. More than a year after the start of his cancer journey, he remains deeply grateful.

“I had no symptoms of lung cancer, and it was found completely by chance. My life is a gift,” he said. “I give credit to all of my Northside Hospital doctors who collaborated seamlessly to manage my health risks and give me the best possible outcome.

“They are great people who have my best interests at heart. Every day, I appreciate my health and my life.”