How a Watertown Neurosurgeon Helped Save Joanne Spooner’s Life

In May 2025, Joanne Spooner arrived at Samaritan Medical Center seeking relief from neck pain and a bad taste in her mouth. Neck pain was common for Joanne, but this time, it seemed different, and it would soon lead her to the care of a Samaritan neurosurgeon.

At first, she attributed her discomfort to arthritis, but test results revealed a bacterial meningitis diagnosis and an infected cyst that had burst in her neck.

Joanne’s condition quickly declined, and she soon was septic and had pneumonia in both lungs. She was admitted to Samaritan’s intensive care unit (ICU) where Dr. Stephanie Zyck, a neurosurgeon with advanced training in complex neurological care, discovered a serious bacterial infection that formed around the spinal cord in Joanne’s neck. Although the infection was eroding two discs in her neck, Dr. Zyck recognized it was caused by a type of staph bacteria that can be treated with antibiotics.

Dr. Zyck took the time to explain Joanne’s treatment options and answer her questions, giving her the confidence to choose surgery that evening. Understanding the seriousness of Joanne’s condition, Dr. Zyck quickly assembled a team of doctors to provide the care she urgently needed.

Thanks to the return of local neurosurgery services at Samaritan in April 2025, Joanne had access to specialized care close to home during this critical moment. The surgery was performed hours later by Dr. Zyck, Caitlin Winkler, PA-C and anesthesiologist, Dr. Eric N. Duah.

“Dr. Zyck saved my life. She made a smart decision, brought together an effective team and took the initiative to make sure I got the care I needed,” Joanne said “She explained my treatment options and made me feel comfortable choosing surgery. I trusted her, and I knew I was receiving the best care possible.”

Joanne’s surgery was a success. Throughout her three-week stay at Samaritan, she was supported by a dedicated care team, including Dr. Zyck, Caitlin Winkler, Dr. Marylene J. Duah, infectious disease physician, and many nurses and support team members who worked together to closely monitor her recovery.

They provided Joanne with support every step of the way and adjusted her care plans as needed. Their guidance helped Joanne get back on her feet and return home, ensuring she knew her care team was there for her if anything came up.

“Dr. Zyck always took the time to answer my questions and explain things in a way I could understand,” said Joanne. “If she didn’t have an answer right away, she took the time to find one. That meant so much to me because I felt heard, supported and truly cared for throughout my stay.”

Joanne is making a steady recovery and continues to see Caitlin Winkler for follow-up care.

“Dr. Zyck and Caitlin Winkler are a powerful team, and I truly believe that is why I’m alive.”

Originally published in September 2026.