Wyatt Dressel and his longtime partner Nancy got married at Sutter’s Alta Bates Summit Medical Center. The ceremony was officiated by Dr. Scott Lu and Chaplain Stevie Stennis provided spiritual counsel. Some of the seventh floor patient care unit team even stepped in as bridesmaids, adding warmth and camaraderie to the occasion. The couple’s love and determination shone brightly, reminding us all of the power of human connection during challenging times.
By Clayton Warren, Vitals contributor
Last November, the halls of the seventh floor patient care unit at Sutter’s Alta Bates Summit Medical Center in Oakland were filled with joy and celebration as Wyatt Dressel and his longtime partner Nancy exchanged vows in a heartfelt wedding ceremony. Wyatt, recently diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and having completed his first cycle of chemotherapy, shared his and Nancy’s long‑standing wish to marry with his care team. The team rallied together to make this dream a reality.
Wyatt and Nancy Dressel celebrate their nuptials!
“My experience as a patient at Alta Bates Summit Medical Center has been first-class and I really appreciate the staff members who went the extra mile to help make this wedding possible,” said Wyatt. “Nancy and I were really impressed with the entire team and how they pulled this event together for us.”
Bringing joy to patients and their families
When members of a patient’s health care team come together to plan celebrations like this, it reflects their commitment to caring for patients as individuals, beyond a diagnosis.
Wyatt’s journey began at the Sutter Roseville Medical Center Emergency Department, where tests confirmed his diagnosis of acute myeloid leukemia, a type of blood cancer that affects bone marrow and disrupts healthy blood cell production. He was then referred to Alta Bates Summit’s Comprehensive Cancer Center for specialized care. Amid treatment and uncertainty, Wyatt and Nancy chose to celebrate life and love, creating a moment that will be cherished by everyone who witnessed it.
Wyatt Dressel credits oncologist Dr. Oleg Krijanovski for his guidance and compassion
“Orlea Francisco, R.N. and Angelica Alquillera, R.N. went above and beyond to help care for me and fast tracked my recovery so that I could be discharged and go home sooner,” said Wyatt. “I was also very fortunate to be treated by oncologist Dr. Oleg Krijanovski, who oversaw my cancer diagnosis and gave me clear guidance when I needed it. Orlea, Angelica and Dr. Krijanovski’s expertise and compassion made all the difference in my journey at ABSMC.”
This beautiful event and patient outcome reflect the heart of Alta Bates Summit: compassionate care that goes beyond medicine. Congratulations to Wyatt and Nancy!
