The Bryan Foundation joined with nonprofit Nature Sacred to create green space at the April Sampson Cancer Center dedicated to nurturing the mind, body and spirit.
This Sacred Place, which is called The Garden of Hope and Healing, offers a serene retreat where patients, families and employees can find respite, reflection and a sense of calm in a soothing, natural environment. The garden features native plantings, a labyrinth and walking path that encircles a grove of shade trees. Guests can also find community journals under the benches to share written reflections with others.
“Being in and around nature can calm and soothe the soul,” said Danielle Henricksen, director of April Sampson Cancer Center. “This Sacred Place offers our patients, families, and employees a peaceful escape where they can find comfort, strength and renewal. It’s a testament to our commitment to care for the whole person, addressing not only their physical needs but also emotional and spiritual needs.”
The April Sampson Cancer Center simplifies the logistics of care while placing a strong emphasis on the mental, emotional and spiritual well-being of its patients. The new Sacred Place is part of a broader initiative to integrate nature into the care experience.
Nature Sacred has spent over 25 years partnering with healthcare institutions, communities and organizations to co-create Sacred Places, which are tranquil sanctuaries designed to restore balance and offer a peaceful respite. Many renowned institutions, including Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland, have embraced this model, recognizing the profound impact these spaces can have on patient and employee well-being.
Watch Video
BryanHealth.org/Garden
Bispecific T-cell Engager (BiTE) Therapy
Now available in Lincoln through Bryan Medical Center
Who: Large B-cell lymphoma patients (research is quickly expanding to treat many other types of cancer)
What: Glofitamab and Epcoritamab, bispecific T-cell engagers (BiTE)
How: Via infusion per oncology physician orders and protocol. The engagers attach to both immune system’s T cells and cancer cells, making it more efficient for the patient’s own T cells to attack the cancer cells
Where: Inpatient at Bryan East Campus or as an outpatient in an oncology clinic
Why: To expand cancer therapies for patients in our region, in collaboration with local oncology clinics
If you have any questions, please call Bryan Cancer Program at 402-481-7900.
Breast Cancer & Lymphedema
By Tracy Bender, OTD, OTR/L, CLT, CMF Occupational Therapist Cancer Partners of Nebraska at the April Sampson Cancer Center
Lymphedema is a condition that occurs in 1 in 5 breast cancer patients. It might occur right after surgery or radiation therapy, or it might happen months or years later, or not at all. If lymphedema is not treated, it can become debilitating and can cause cellulitis.
While there is no cure for lymphedema, there are things patients can do to help reduce or relieve the symptoms
What is lymphedema?
Lymphedema is an abnormal swelling that can occur after damage of the lymphatic system or lymph node removal. This might be the result of treatment options such as surgery or radiation therapy. When damage occurs to the lymphatic system, lymphatic fluid can build up. This causes uncomfortable swelling. When identified early, lymphedema can be treated, managed and symptoms can be relieved.
What are the symptoms of lymphedema?
Symptoms of lymphedema include a feeling of fullness, heaviness or tightness of the affected area. Lymphedema typically has a slow onset and may be noticed because jewelry or clothing begins to leave an indentation on the skin. Comparing the limbs may show differences around boney areas, or a difference may be noted of the top of the hand or foot.
What can be done to treat lymphedema symptoms?
A trained therapist can provide complete decongestive therapy (CDT) to treat lymphedema. This treatment helps reduce swelling caused by excess fluid in the body.
What does Complete Decongestive Therapy include?
CDT includes manual lymph drainage massage, skin care, exercise, use of compression when appropriate, and education about how to manage it at home.
Manual lymph drainage massage:
A type of massage with specific techniques that can effectively help rid the body of excess fluid and symptoms of swelling. Manual lymph drainage massage has a very light pressure because the lymphatic system is close to the surface of the skin.
Skin care:
Lymphedema can increase the risk of infection of the skin, therefore skin care education is very important. It is recommended to use products without fragrances or perfumes that can irritate the skin. Wound and nail care may also be recommended.
Exercise:
Special exercises are used with lymphedema treatment to promote circulation towards the center of the body. Cardiovascular exercise such as walking, jogging, swimming or rebounding will promote increased lymphatic circulation in the body. Excessive strain or heavy weight lifting should be avoided.
Compression garments:
These are usually elastic-type sleeves or stockings that fit closely to the skin. They compress the affected area (usually the arm for breast cancer patients) to promote drainage of lymph fluid. A skilled rehabilitation therapist can recommend various products tailored for each person’s needs. This might include compression wraps, garments, pads and pneumatic compression pumps. At the April Sampson Cancer Center, a team of certified fitters provides measurements to ensure the proper compression and fit for each person.
Additional Services for Breast Cancer Patients
Also at April Sampson Cancer Center are Certified Mastectomy Fitters, who help patients with breast prosthetics—whether partial, full, custom or nipple prosthetics—as well as bras.
For more information, visit AprilSampsonCancerCenter.org or call Cancer Partners of Nebraska at 402-420-7000.
Staff Spotlight – Cindy Tumor Board Coordinator
Cindy Van Arsdall is the Bryan Cancer Program tumor board coordinator. She is part of a team that gathers patient information to present at the tumor boards. She also helps collect all needed imaging and other details for each patient breast cancer multidisciplinary clinic. Another key contribution is helping to identify incidental lung nodule findings to be reviewed.
This behind-the-scenes work is invaluable in helping patients get the most comprehensive treatment plans with multiple expert opinions.
Cindy is a certified medical assistant and served in the Army National Guard from 1981-1988. She previously worked at Cancer Partners of Nebraska and has been with Bryan since 2017.
She is married with two daughters, two grandsons and four grand-dogs. In her free time, she loves to travel, cook, do house projects and listen to her husband’s band.
Questions about the tumor boards? Call 402-481-7900 or email CancerProgram@bryanhealth.org
Casting Through Cancer
Donor Corner
We are grateful for generous donors in our community, such as the Schorr Family, who contributed to The Garden of Hope and Healing, in honor of Paul and June’s parents, Florence and Paul Schorr Jr. and Helen and Michael Stefanisin.
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It is our wish and prayer that those who experience this Sacred Place will find solace and hope as they face the difficult challenges of life.
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Call the Bryan Foundation at 402-481-8605 or visit bryanhealth.org/join-the-cause for more information on giving opportunities.
Guided fly fishing for those affected by cancer
Fly fishing has proven benefits for both mental and physical health. April Sampson Cancer Center is pleased to offer guided fly fishing twice a month at our private pond. Volunteer community anglers from the Cornhusker Fly Fishers club offer instruction on casting and tying flies, while participants can enjoy the tranquil natural setting.
How does fly fishing help?
The rhythmic motion of casting brings the brain to a meditative-like state, in addition to helping with arm and shoulder mobility. Plus, time in nature has been shown to reduce the stress hormone cortisol.
Do participants need experience or gear?
All levels of experience are welcome, and equipment is provided. Participants should wear a hat and eye protection, such as sunglasses. They should also seek approval from their medical provider before participating.
For upcoming dates and to register, call 402-481-6311 or visit BryanHealth.org/CastingThroughCancer
Bryan Cancer Program
Cindy Van Arsdall
Paul & June Schorr
April Sampson Cancer Center
4101 Tiger Lily Rd. Lincoln, NE 68516
Address Service Requested
Cancer News
Stay informed with the latest comprehensive cancer care updates View online & previous issues: bryanhealth.org/cancer-newsletter
Comprehensive cancer care under one roof
View highlights of the many offerings at the April Sampson Cancer Center
Bryan Thoracic Cancer Staging Consult at April Sampson Cancer Center
Help newly diagnosed lung cancer patients get treatment faster.
• Streamlined staging process
• Collaborative treatment plan
• Personalized assessment and orders of needed tests
• Presentation at Thoracic Tumor Board
• Coordination of next steps
All information relayed back to referring provider for ongoing care.
Refer in Epic or call Bryan Cancer Program at 402-481-7900
Cancer Support Programs
At the April Sampson Cancer Center, we believe that healing goes beyond traditional medical treatments. We aim to support the emotional and psychological well-being of cancer patients through a variety of programs:
Cancer Support Group – first Thursdays, 3-4 p.m.
Prostate Cancer Support Group - second Thursdays, 3-4 p.m.
Wellness Through Cancer – most Thursdays, 4-5 p.m.
Casting Through Cancer – twice a month, day and time varies
We also offer education and hands-on experiences that include:
• Acupuncture demonstrations
• Paired massage techniques
• Skin and beauty care
• Sound baths
• Guided meditation
• Art therapy
• And more!
View calendar of upcoming events at AprilSampsonCancerCenter.org/Calendar
