Mega Doctor News
By Roberto Hugo González
The Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce held a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony for RGV Vascular and Vein Institute, marking the opening of its third location in the Rio Grande Valley. Hosted by the Weslaco Chamber, the event welcomed civic leaders, healthcare advocates, and community members to recognize the Institute’s expansion and the vital services it brings to the Mid Valley region.
“My name is Barbara Jean Garza,” she opened. “I’m the president and CEO of the Weslaco Area Chamber of Commerce. Very proud to be here to celebrate RGV Vascular and Vein Institute right here in Weslaco, Texas.”
The event featured several local and regional leaders, including Weslaco Mayor Adrian Gonzalez, who remarked, “It’s awesome to be here and at all these ribbon cuttings that we’re having, because that just means that Weslaco continues to grow and that people see the potential here in the city of Weslaco.” Addressing Dr. Pedro Mego directly, he added, “Thank you for choosing the city of Weslaco. You are not making a mistake… It’s a city in the grow, a city that cares.”
Dr. Pedro Mego, FSCAI, who has practiced vascular care since 2005, addressed the crowd with gratitude and a mission-oriented message. “First of all, I like to thank our God… every day is a blessing,” he said, recognizing his team, including co-leader Dr. Schamma Salomon and practice administrator Dalia Cobos. “We are committed to doing our best to deliver the best care that we can provide.”
Dr. Mego noted the alarming rise in vascular disease across South Texas. “We know this is a community in need. The epidemic of overweight, the epidemic of diabetes… unfortunately, these increased risks for heart problems, strokes, dialysis, eye problems… and amputation,” he explained. “We are committed to trying to prevent amputations. That’s our main reason.”
RGV Vascular and Vein Institute specializes in treating Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) and chronic venous disease. With facilities in Mission, Edinburg, and now Weslaco, the institute provides both diagnostic screenings and minimally invasive procedures designed to restore circulation and reduce hospital stays. PAD, caused by blocked arteries in the legs, is particularly prevalent in the Valley due to high rates of diabetes and cardiovascular risk factors.
The institute utilizes state-of-the-art technologies, including ankle-brachial index testing, vascular ultrasound, and Doppler imaging. When intervention is needed, treatments include the use of balloons, stents, and even CO₂-based contrast imaging—an option critical for patients with kidney issues. “We always encourage second opinions,” Dr. Mego has previously said. “Too many amputations are preventable.”
Jean added that each RGV facility was designed personally by Dr. Mego. “It really does take a special person to be able to create this vision and execute it,” she said, highlighting his training at top national institutions.
Maritza Gonzalez, representing the Texas Healthcare Alliance Chamber of Commerce, echoed that sentiment: “His vision is phenomenal… to save limbs.” She noted that before the Weslaco opening, patients had to travel to Mission for care. “It is amazing what he does.”
Lorena Hernandez, a wound care certified nurse and co-founder of the Alliance, added urgency to the mission. “South Texas actually has the biggest rate of amputations in the nation,” she said. “By Dr. Mego coming here to Weslaco, it’s going to make a big difference.”
From the local provider community, Leslie Von Der Ahe, LNFA and administrator at Weslaco Nursing and Rehab, recognized Dr. Mego’s growing reputation. “I’ve heard Doctor’s name several times around our conference table. ‘Send them there.’” She presented a commemorative plaque on behalf of the Chamber, saying, “We thank you for bringing your business here locally, and we’ll be sending some patients your way.”
Yolanda Guzman, board director for the Texas Healthcare Alliance Chamber and representative from Texas Oncology, officially welcomed Dr. Mego as a member of the organization. “This is a plaque that you can display proudly… This is a chamber that focuses and supports healthcare professionals.”
The ceremony concluded with attendees preparing to step outside for the official ribbon cutting. As Garza quipped, “Enjoy the AC for the last two seconds you have right now,” there was a tangible sense of optimism and shared purpose in the air.
With this third location, RGV Vascular and Vein Institute aims to expand its reach and reduce limb-loss statistics in a region historically underserved in vascular care. As Dr. Mego stated simply but powerfully, “We are here to serve. I’m very happy to be here.”
