Clark Brandon

Each member of the radiation oncology team at TriStar StoneCrest Medical Center received a copy of Theo of Golden, and inside, a handwritten note from a patient Clark Brandon, sharing how they personally impacted his care. The gesture was unexpected and deeply personal, leaving many in tears.

“I cannot thank you enough for the kindness you’ve shown me,” he wrote. “You’ve made this journey easier.”

For Clark, the moment was a reflection of the experience he’s had throughout his treatment.

Several times a week, he drives from Manchester to Smyrna for radiation treatments, with 4 remaining in his 6.5-week plan. His journey with cancer began four years ago, when he was diagnosed with prostate cancer and underwent surgery to remove his prostate. Earlier this year, a routine physical showed elevated PSA levels, bringing him back into treatment.

With a Department of Defense background, Clark approached this next step with focus and discipline, taking time to understand every detail.

“I wanted to educate myself as much as I could about the process,” he said.

He found that clarity with Dr. Ryan Jones, radiation oncologist at the Sarah Cannon Cancer Network at TriStar StoneCrest, and a team committed to helping him feel informed and confident.

“At first, I was nervous,” Clark said. “But they explained everything in a way that made sense. That made a big difference.”

His treatment plan uses targeted radiation and advanced technology, delivered through a highly coordinated team focused on high-quality care.

“You can tell there’s a lot of leadership and coordination behind it,” he said.

The experience itself has been just as meaningful. From the moment he walks in, Anna, the office manager, greets patients by name and creates an immediate sense of comfort and ease.

“They treat you with dignity and respect,” Clark said. “It’s efficient, but still comfortable.”

Clark also credits Velvet, his nurse, for helping him navigate the journey.

“She’s direct and funny,” he said. “She tells you what you need to hear, but in a way that makes you laugh. That really helped me.”

After more than 20 treatments, Clark wanted the entire radiation oncology team to understand the impact they had made, not just on his care, but on his outlook.

As he nears the end of treatment, he carries that gratitude, and hope, with him.