No Stopping Linda: Robotic Hernia Surgery Keeps Her Life in Motion
Linda Burkett wasn't about to let a hernia slow her down. Robotic-assisted hernia surgery got her back to living life to the fullest.
For Linda Burkett, slowing down has never been an option. A retired computer programmer who recalls her early career coding using punched cards loaded into a machine, the Willingboro resident now fills her days volunteering with nonprofits and traveling the world.
After completing treatment for uterine cancer, she focused on returning to her busy schedule. That is, until a lump in her abdomen gave her pause. Linda raised the issue with Michelle Bilbao, DO, her gynecologic oncologist with the Penn Medicine | Virtua Health Cancer Program, who suspected a hernia and connected her with Virtua general surgeon Neena Singh, MD, FACS.
“Dr. Singh said she was there to make me well,” said Linda, 72. “She understood my concerns and walked me through everything she was going to do.”
What is a hernia?
Abdominal muscles form a thick wall that protect the intestines. A hernia occurs when a weak spot in the abdominal wall allows intestinal tissue to protrude through it, often producing a noticeable bulge under the skin.
Surgery can increase the risk of developing an incisional hernia, and for Linda, chemotherapy further weakened a 3-centimeter section of the abdominal wall, allowing a portion of her small intestine to push through.
Robotic surgery provides fewer incisions, less pain
In May 2025—just over a year after being diagnosed with cancer—Linda underwent robotic-assisted hernia surgery at Virtua Willingboro Hospital to close the small hole in her abdominal wall and reinforce it with special mesh. Robotic-assisted procedures allow patients to experience less post-operative pain and recover more quickly.
“Without surgery, she would have been at risk of a bowel obstruction or perforated bowel,” said Dr. Singh. “We wanted to repair it as soon as possible. We worked with her cardiologist and oncology team to coordinate her other treatments and medications to ensure she had the best possible outcome.”
“When I walked into the procedure room, they greeted me like I was their neighbor. It was a great experience,” said Linda. “Having doctors who are honest and reassuring takes the fear away. I knew I was in good hands.”
Living a full life after hernia surgery
After just two weeks of recovery, Linda was back to her active routine and pain-free. She appreciates the attention she received from her care team.
“Dr. Singh and Dr. Bilbao return your calls right away, and that means a lot. You feel their support every step of the way,” Linda said.
“She went through surgery for cancer, chemotherapy, and radiation, and her attitude is just so positive,” said Dr. Singh. “She wanted to get better and not be affected by the hernia because she wants to live her life.”
And Linda is living life to the fullest. She’s back to traveling, volunteering with the Willingboro Friendship Guild, and spending time with her two grandchildren.
“I really feel good. I thank God for every doctor he placed in my path and for the continued healing of my body,” she said.
Don’t let hernia pain hold you back
If you know or suspect you have a hernia, the right care can get you back in action. Call 888-847-8823 to schedule an appointment with a Virtua surgeon specializing in hernia repair.
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