Scott Amster always knew Memorial Healthcare System was a special place. Years earlier, his father received cancer treatment at Memorial, and Scott remembered how compassionate and skilled the teams were. So, when he started having major headaches and collapsing without warning, he trusted Memorial with his own care.

At first, Scott thought his symptoms were from years of sports, jiu-jitsu, and old injuries. He had aches in his neck, knees, and shoulders, and assumed it was normal wear and tear. But when his left side suddenly began to shut down, he knew something was seriously wrong.

At Memorial Regional Hospital, imaging revealed the cause, a benign brain tumor. Scott describes that moment as surreal. He was confused, exhausted, and unsure what would come next.

But he also knew he was in the right place.

Expert Diagnosis and a Team He Could Trust

Scott’s care team at Memorial Neuroscience Institute moved quickly. His neurosurgeon, Simon Buttrick, MD, explained the diagnosis and treatment plan with clarity and compassion. Scott also met specialists from Memorial Cancer Institute, including medical oncologists Atif Hussein, MD, and radiation oncologist Christine Feng, MD.

Together, they built a coordinated plan that included:

• 45 days of radiation therapy
• 12 months of chemotherapy
• Ongoing monitoring and supportive care
• Mental health support to help him cope with the emotional impact

Scott says he felt cared for every step of the way.

Advanced Treatment With a Personal Touch

Scott’s brain surgery took place on Halloween 2024; a detail he remembers because he couldn’t believe the team was there, fully focused on him, instead of home with their families. That level of dedication made a lasting impression.

His treatment continued with radiation and chemotherapy. To his surprise, he tolerated the treatments well, with only mild side effects. He joked that he almost wondered if he was getting a placebo because he felt so much better than expected.

Throughout his journey, Scott turned Memorial into what he called his “home away from home.” The staff made him feel safe, supported, and understood. Something he says made all the difference.

Recovery, Strength, and a New Outlook on Life

Once Scott was cleared to exercise again, he eased back into running and weight training. Slowly, his strength returned. Today, he is pain-free, active, and grateful for the second chance he’s been given.

He credits his recovery to the expert, team-based care he received from his neurosurgeon, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and a psychologist. Their collaboration ensured he received the right treatment at the right time, and the emotional support to keep going.

For patients facing a benign brain tumor, or any complex neurological condition, Scott wants them to know they’re in good hands at Memorial.

“I feel very fortunate to be here,” he said. “I can’t say enough about this place.”

We've Got the Spine, Back, and Nerve to Care for You

Memorial Healthcare System delivers comprehensive, lifelong neuroscience care for adults at Memorial Neuroscience Institute, and children at Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital. Patients with the most severe neurological and traumatic spinal injuries receive rapid, coordinated care at the Level 1 Trauma Center at Memorial Regional Hospital, while those with complex seizure disorders benefit from the nationally recognized Level IV Epilepsy Center and dedicated Epilepsy Monitoring Unit. Memorial also operates two Comprehensive Stroke Centers, ensuring the highest level of stroke diagnosis, intervention, and recovery support. Together, these programs create a seamless, system‑wide network of world‑class neurosurgical care, rehabilitation, and compassionate support for every patient and family.