When 67-year-old Scott Zeff from Davie, Florida, received his stage 4 rectal cancer diagnosis, he never imagined he'd soon be calling his outcome "a miracle." Today, after an incredible medical journey, he's back to enjoying life with his family and celebrating every precious moment with his three grandchildren.

Scott's story began in June 2024 during a routine prostate exam. His doctor recommended a colonoscopy—his first ever—which revealed a large tumor. What could have been a devastating setback became the beginning of an extraordinary recovery story, thanks to the exceptional care he received at Cleveland Clinic Florida.

Under the expert guidance of colorectal surgeon Dr. Giovanna da Silva and oncologist Dr. Tiffany George, Scott embarked on a comprehensive treatment plan. After chemotherapy and radiation successfully shrunk the tumor, he underwent groundbreaking robotic surgery in October 2025. The procedure was particularly complex because the large tumor had extended beyond the colon and was touching both his bladder and prostate.

The surgical team, led by Dr. da Silva alongside urologic surgeon Dr. Alberto Pieretti, performed what can only be described as medical artistry. Using advanced robotic techniques, they successfully removed the rectal tumor and part of the bladder in one piece. Even more remarkably, despite initial concerns that his bladder and prostate might be severely compromised, Dr. Pieretti was able to save both organs.

"I couldn't have asked for a better outcome," Scott shares with genuine gratitude. The real estate broker, who runs his own firm in Fort Lauderdale, is particularly appreciative of Dr. da Silva's comprehensive care approach. "There is no one better," he says warmly. "No one could do what she did and be as nice as she is." He notes how she went above and beyond, coordinating every aspect of his treatment with exceptional attention to detail.

While Scott temporarily uses an ileostomy bag, his treatment is complete, and the cancer has not spread to other parts of his body. He's now focused on recovery and returning to the everyday activities he loves, surrounded by the people who matter most.

Throughout his journey, Scott's support system proved invaluable. His girlfriend Jennifer, sister Eva, and four adult children—triplet sons Zach, Nathan, and Stephen, plus daughter Rebecca—rallied around him with unwavering love. All four of his children have since relocated to be closer to their father, a testament to the strong family bonds that helped carry him through challenging times.

Even in the face of serious surgery, Scott maintained his characteristic sense of humor. Before the procedure, he taped an index card to his chest playfully asking his surgeons to "Please save any parts possible"—a request that, thankfully, they exceeded.

Now cancer-free and looking forward, Scott treasures every moment with his grandchildren, Sawyer, Charlotte, and Tali. His message is one of profound gratitude: "I can't say thank you enough to all the people who helped and supported me. I'm feeling great, and I'm heading in the right direction."

Scott Zeff truly considers himself "the luckiest guy alive," and his inspiring story reminds us all of the remarkable possibilities when cutting-edge medical care meets determination, excellent physicians, and the healing power of family love.