Our Stories

Alberto Calle, a family medicine resident at HCA Florida Oak Hill Hospital, came to the U.S. from Guayaquil, Ecuador to study anesthesiology. In May 2024, his life took a sharp turn. After experiencing severe abdominal pain, Alberto was diagnosed with gastric cancer and urgently needed treatment.  

HCA Healthcare supported Alberto’s transfer to Florida, where he transitioned from anesthesia to family medicine – a change that better suited his treatment plan. The 26 rounds of chemotherapy were only the beginning. Alberto soon faced a bowel obstruction that landed him in the critical care unit. For three months, he was unable to eat or drink. The physical toll was enormous, and so was the financial one. 

A visiting GME executive from Tennessee who heard Alberto’s story suggested he apply for help from the HCA Healthcare Hope Fund. Alberto was hesitant, but he applied. 

The support helped ease many of the burdens he was carrying. He’s now set to graduate from his residency in July 2026. Through this journey, Alberto says he’s witnessed extraordinary compassion, from an employer that stood by him, to caregivers who treated him with dignity, to colleagues who quietly support the Hope Fund. “I am grateful for every single day,” he says. “I’m filled with gratitude for everyone who provided care, to me and to our patients.” 

His experience on the other side of the hospital bed has changed him. “Living through this,” he adds, “gives life more purpose.” And now, he’s looking ahead, not only to the next step in his medical career, but to the chance to give back through contributing to the HCA Hope Fund. After all that he’s endured and received, Alberto is excited to pay it forward.