Rehabilitation Empowers Patients Throughout Cancer Recovery

From a breast cancer diagnosis to having a partial mastectomy, Karen Luhr has had a whirlwind of life-changing experiences but is on the road to recovery. She is moving and feeling better than ever before, thanks to the help of the cancer rehabilitation team at Cancer Partners of Nebraska.

Rehabilitation therapy, both at Bryan Medical Center and at Cancer Partners, can help patients recover more quickly and fully from cancer treatment. The rehabilitation teams work with patients to customize a plan to meet their goals.

The Cancer Partners rehab team taught me to do exercises at home to help with my stability. I feel stronger every day, and I contribute my success to the team’s encouragement and positivity.

– Karen

After Karen’s lumpectomy, she underwent 20 rounds of radiation and 11 chemotherapy treatments with minimal side effects. However, she did experience fibrosis, balance issues and neuropathy in her feet. Dr. Joni Tilford, her Cancer Partners medical oncologist, referred her to their rehabilitation team.

Laura Korbelik, MOTR/L, CLT, occupational therapist, and Michaela Bidrowsky, certified occupational therapist assistant, helped Karen with lymphedema, improved range of motion, reduced pain and more independence at home.

Physical therapist Tara Benes, DPT, and physical therapist assistant Jonathan Aten, helped remedy some of the issues Karen was having with balance and overall strength. Balance exercises can counter some of the effects of muscle imbalances and body asymmetry after surgery.

Karen meets with the rehabilitation team monthly and plans to start some of the exercise classes they offer in the coming months.

Karen also met with Cancer Partners certified mastectomy fitters to ensure she was wearing the appropriate garments after her partial mastectomy.

Cortney Driewer, certified mastectomy fitter, works with breast cancer patients.

“My job is to listen to the patients and understand their needs,” Cortney said. “We ensure they have a properlyfitting bra and any other related supplies, such as prosthetics. We also provide education on how to use and maintain these supplies and garments.”

Karen is happy with her care and recovery. “Sometimes, dealing with cancer can leave you feeling defeated, but with the help of Cancer Partners staff, I am feeling more and more like my old self every day,” she said.

Cancer Partners and Bryan Cancer Program will move to the April Sampson Cancer Center in less than a year. This state-of-the-art cancer center will offer many additional support services – including genetic testing and counseling, rehabilitation, nutrition, mental health support and survivorship care, as well as outdoor space with walking trails and natural surroundings that include trees and a pond.