When Greg Sargent was diagnosed with mid-rectal cancer during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, his life took an unexpected turn. But thanks to the expert care of colorectal surgeon, Dr Tilan Beneragama and unwavering support he received at The Bays Hospital, Greg faced his cancer journey with confidence — and came out stronger.
Greg’s story began in August 2021 with a colonoscopy at The Bays performed by Dr Richard La Nauze. He was then referred to colorectal surgeon Dr Tilan Beneragama. Although a public patient, Greg was treated in the private hospital under special COVID-19 arrangements due to the urgency of his condition.
After being sent to another hospital for chemotherapy and radiation therapy, Greg’s planned surgery was delayed when he fell seriously ill with a bacterial infection. He returned to The Bays in November 2021, where Dr Beneragama diagnosed radiation-induced colitis — a complication that would later require the removal of a section of Greg’s small intestine. At this point, physician Dr Prakash Nayagam was brought on board to help get the condition under control.
In February 2022, Greg underwent major bowel surgery where Dr Beneragama performed a laparoscopic-assisted low anterior bowel resection and ileostomy, to create a temporary stoma.
“”The support I received from The Bays’ stomal therapy nurses was nothing short of fantastic. They were knowledgeable, kind and incredibly reassuring,” he said.
In 2023, Greg returned to The Bays to self-fund his ileostomy reversal, and again in 2025 for a follow-up colonoscopy — choosing to stay with the team he trusted.
“I can’t speak highly enough of the care I’ve received,” Greg says. “From the moment I walked through the doors, I felt like more than just a patient. Dr Beneragama explained everything clearly and made sure I felt comfortable every step of the way. The team at The Bays gave me confidence that I was going to get through this — and I did.”
Now well into recovery, Greg is back to doing what he loves. “I walk 4–5 days a week, play golf a couple of times a week, regularly do the 5K Parkrun, and still get out on my motorbike,” he said.
Greg’s journey is a powerful reminder of the difference that personalised, expert care can make. We’re proud to have been part of Greg’s story, and to continue delivering exceptional, community-based care to patients like him, when they need it most.
Photo: Greg at a Parkrun in Euroa last year.