Scaling the Mountain Beacham McDougald’s Story of Strength and Hope

In December 2024, Beacham McDougald was enjoying a peaceful mountain getaway when a sharp pain in his back disrupted the serenity. What initially seemed like a routine health issue—a kidney stone—turned out to be the beginning of a life-altering journey.

After returning home, Beacham sought care from a local urologist who successfully removed the kidney stone. But a follow-up appointment revealed something far more serious: prostate cancer. The diagnosis was unexpected and daunting, but Beacham faced it with the same resolve he had once summoned to hike the rugged trails of Grandfather Mountain.

While the medical center where he was diagnosed offered excellent care, the prospect of traveling several hours daily for radiation and chemotherapy was overwhelming. Fortunately, Beacham had previously received a recommendation for the Scotland Cancer Treatment Center (SCTC)—just four miles from his home. As a long-time advocate and supporter of Scotland Health and Hospice of Scotland County it was a suggestion that he was open to and one that would soon prove to be life-changing.

“After my first visit, we knew that was where I would receive the upcoming treatments,” Beacham recalls. “The entire staff was professional.”

One of the first people Beacham met at SCTC was Dr. Anamika Katoch, a medical oncologist whose warm demeanor immediately put him at ease.

“She entered my examination room with a radiant smile, happy greeting, and then asked: ‘Tell me about yourself.’ It wasn’t a question about my health, but she was interested in my hobbies, lifestyle, and interests.”

That simple inquiry sparked a connection. Beacham shared stories of his mountain backpacking adventures, including hikes to MacRae’s Peak at Grandfather Mountain—a place Dr. Katoch had never heard of. Inspired by his tales, she later hiked the same trail during a visit to the area in September 2025.

As his treatment progressed, Beacham faced difficult days, especially during the later stages of radiation. But the compassionate care he received at SCTC made all the difference. He vividly remembers Chelsey Dial, RN, who comforted him during a painful relapse.

Chelsey has been an advocate for cancer research, preventative care, and Scotland Cancer Treatment Center.  She has shared her story Relay For Life, the cancer center’s annual breast cancer walk, and other cancer related events in the community.  A cancer survivor herself, Chelsey is often recognized by SCTC patients.

“Chelsey not only took me in a wheelchair for more testing, but she was an angel with her calming words and assurances. My worry went from a ten to a one.”

Another standout was Mary Callahan-Lopez, RN, who became a trusted confidante and always seemed to be in the right place at the right time. Beacham is quick to acknowledge that many other nurses provided exceptional care, noting, “They were all A+!”

The professionalism and warmth of the SCTC team were matched by their commitment to ensuring Beacham received the best possible treatment. When his medical and radiation oncologists needed a second opinion, they referred him to a respected Duke Medical oncologist in Sanford. This collaboration underscored the center’s dedication to comprehensive, patient-centered care.

Adding to his confidence was a personal connection: Beacham’s niece’s husband, a teaching physician at Duke Medical Center, had initially recommended SCTC after learning of his diagnosis. His endorsement came with high praise for the center’s Duke-affiliated oncologists.

Now, more a few short months after completing radiation treatments, Beacham is on the mend. His journey has been marked by resilience, trust, and gratitude—for the medical professionals who stood by him, and for the decision to seek care close to home.

“After marrying my wife, Lynn,” Beacham says with a smile, “the Scotland Cancer Treatment Center was my second-best decision.”