62-year-old Ronnie Tutko now carries a note in his wallet with a simple instruction for his family: if he ever needs hospital care again, take him to St. Luke's.
"That's where I want to go," he says. "Without a doubt."
Here’s why: Back in September of 2025, Tutko woke up in the middle of the night with severe stomach pain radiating into his back, he knew something wasn't right.
"It was about 3 a.m.," Ronnie recalls. "The pain was intense."
The discomfort came just hours after Ronnie had enjoyed a rich Italian meal while celebrating his birthday with family. While he didn't know it at the time, fatty foods can sometimes aggravate underlying digestive conditions and trigger sudden abdominal pain.
As the pain continued throughout the day, the Hazleton-area resident decided it was time to seek medical attention. Expecting a long wait, Ronnie went to St. Luke's Miners Campus. Instead, he found something he wasn't expecting: prompt care, compassionate staff and a team determined to find answers.
"There was no wait," he says. "Everyone was so nice."
The emergency team quickly evaluated Ronnie and ordered imaging tests to determine the cause of his symptoms. As results came in, it became clear that the source of his pain was more serious than a simple stomach issue. Further testing, including an ultrasound, helped physicians identify a gallbladder condition that would require surgery.
That's when Ronnie met Thomas Donkar, MD.
"Dr. Donkar came in and explained exactly what was happening," Ronnie says. "He was thorough, professional and reassuring."
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Dr. Donkar recommended surgery. Ronnie was admitted to a private room and underwent surgery the following Monday.
The procedure was successful, but what stands out most to Ronnie isn't just the medical expertise he received. It's the kindness he experienced throughout his stay.
"Everyone talked to you. Everyone was friendly," he says. "I've been to a lot of hospitals, and I've never had an experience like this. Everything was super quick and efficient."
Before discharge, Dr. Donkar visited Ronnie one more time, making sure he was comfortable and prepared to go home.
"He told me, 'Let's get you home,' and even made sure I had something to eat before I left," Ronnie recalls. "They gave me supplies and everything I needed to take care of myself. It was very thoughtful."
Today, Ronnie is back to enjoying time with family, cooking on his smoker and pursuing his passion for hunting. He says his experience changed his perception of hospital care and gave him a new appreciation for the team at St. Luke's Miners Campus.
"The experience was so positive," he says. "Everyone treated me so well."
