Jasper, Ga. (May 1, 2025) – When Tonya Padgett scheduled a routine appointment with a new gynecologist at Piedmont Physicians Obstetrics and Gynecology in Jasper last fall, she had no idea the visit would set in motion a swift, life-saving course of action.
Padgett, a lifelong Cherokee County resident, had previously been told by another doctor she might have health issues to keep an eye on. “It had been years since I’d seen a gynecologist,” she recalled. “But something told me it was time to get checked.”
That “something,” she now believes, was divine intervention.
Padgett mentioned her history and lingering concerns during her first visit with George B. Cabe, M.D. — a retired military physician and new provider with her insurance network. “He listened carefully and recommended an exam right away,” she said. “And within minutes, he found something troubling.”
Rather than schedule a biopsy for a later date, Dr. Cabe told Padgett he could perform one that same day if she could wait about 45 minutes. “I didn’t hesitate, I said, ‘Let’s do it now,’” she said.
The biopsy confirmed Padgett’s fears: cancer. But thanks to early detection and Piedmont’s proactive approach, what could have been a devastating diagnosis quickly became a plan of action.
“Dr. Cabe was incredibly patient when he called with the results,” she said. “He was honest but also reassuring. He said it was 96% curable because we caught it early.”
The next step was surgery — a full hysterectomy and a biopsy of her lymph nodes. Since Padgett wanted to stay closer to home, Dr. Cabe arranged a referral with a specialist, and she had her operation scheduled.
Padgett had her surgery on November 22 — just over a month after her initial appointment.
“They got it all,” she said. “No chemotherapy, no radiation. Just follow-up appointments every three months this year. I am beyond blessed.”
Now cancer-free, Padgett credits her faith, intuition, and Piedmont’s fast, thorough care for saving her life.
“I didn’t have any symptoms,” she said. "It was just a feeling, and I listened. I truly believe it was God telling me to go."
Today, Padgett continues her work in insurance and travel planning — and tells anyone who will listen to prioritize their health and trust their instincts.
“I’ve recommended Dr. Cabe to several friends,” she said. “He’s caring, efficient, and took me seriously from the start. I can’t thank him and the Piedmont care team enough.”
Denise Ray, Chief Executive Officer of Piedmont Mountainside, commented on Piedmont’s commitment to patient care: "We are dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered care. Our values of integrity, respect, and excellence guide us in every interaction, ensuring that each patient receives the highest quality of care. We believe in the power of early detection and proactive treatment, and we are dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of our patients and the community we serve.”
Piedmont strives to be more than just a healthcare provider, but a trusted partner in the local community.