Finding Strength on and off the Court: Barbara’s Story
Barbara, an active member of the community and avid pickleball player, began experiencing persistent nausea this spring. At first, doctors thought it might be a bowel obstruction. But after more tests, they found fluid in her abdomen. Lab results showed cancer cells in the fluid, leading to a diagnosis of ovarian and epithelial cancer.
She was referred to the April Sampson Cancer Center, where she met Dr. Kathryn Kennedy, a gynecologic oncology surgeon who recently joined Cancer Partners of Nebraska. Dr. Kennedy diagnoses and treats cancers of the female reproductive system and leads a multidisciplinary team offering surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and targeted therapies.
Brittnee Arrigo, PA-C, gynecologic oncology physician assistant, with Dr. Kennedy
Barbara underwent surgery at Bryan Medical Center, performed by Dr. Kennedy. Her treatment continues at Cancer Partners of Nebraska, where she receives follow-up care by both Dr. Kennedy and medical oncologist Dr. Irfan Vaziri.
Barbara emphasized the benefit of having her care team centralized at the April Sampson Cancer Center, allowing for seamless communication between providers and a streamlined treatment experience. Her goal remains clear: to return to the pickleball court as soon as she is able.
Bryan South Campus Imaging is now a Designated Comprehensive Breast Imaging Center, accredited by the American College of Radiology.
Bleeding After Menopause: Know What’s Not Normal
Even a single episode of vaginal bleeding after menopause should prompt further evaluation. Gynecologic oncologist Dr. Kathryn Kennedy reminds us that spotting – no matter how light – needs to be checked out.
In this Bryan Health podcast, Dr. Kennedy discusses what symptoms to watch for, when to act and how today’s treatment options are helping women live longer, healthier lives.
Listen now to gain insights that can support earlier diagnosis and better outcomes for your patients.
Barbara and her husband, Don
Kubtec Mozart Enhances Breast Specimen Imaging at Bryan Medical Center
Bryan Medical Center utilizes the Kubtec Mozart, the most advanced technology available for breast specimen imaging.
• Only system with 3D tomosynthesis: Kubtec Mozart is the first and only specimen imaging system offering true 3D imaging.
• Real-time margin assessment: Surgeons can view 3D slices of the specimen during surgery to evaluate how close the cancer is to the margins.
• Fewer re-excisions: This technology allows for immediate removal of additional tissue when margins are close, helping reduce the need for second surgeries.
• Improved patient outcomes: More precise imaging leads to better surgical decisions and potentially faster recovery.
“The Mozart has truly changed how I approach lumpectomies. Being able to see 3D slices of the specimen right in the OR gives me a clear view of whether the cancer is close to the margin. If it is, I can take additional tissue right then and there. That means fewer re-excisions and better outcomes for my patients — and that’s what matters most.”
— Dr. Rachel N. Jendro, DO, FACOS
Bryan Health Focused on Early Detection of Lung Cancer
Bryan Health is committed to catching lung cancer early through targeted screening and coordinated care programs:
• Grant-Funded Screening Expansion
With support from the Nebraska DHHS Comprehensive Cancer Control Program, Bryan is working to increase low-dose CT screenings for high-risk patients through internal and external outreach.
• Bryan Lung Nodule Review Board
A team meets weekly to evaluate scans and recommend next steps. It includes pulmonologists, interventional radiologists, oncology nurse navigators and cancer program coordinators.
• Bryan Thoracic Cancer Staging Consult
This streamlined process helps newly diagnosed patients begin treatment faster. Patients meet with Teresa King, APRN, for assessment, education and test coordination. Cases are reviewed by the Thoracic Tumor Board, where a multidisciplinary team develops a personalized treatment plan. All updates are shared with the referring provider.
Questions? Call the Bryan Cancer Program at 402-481-7900.
Lung Cancer Stage I vs. Stage IV Prognosis
Dr. Rachel N. Jendro, DO, FACOS
Staff Spotlight – Breanna
Gastrointestinal and Gynecologic Cancer Nurse Navigator
Breanna Nedved is an oncology navigator who supports patients with gastrointestinal and gynecologic cancers, as well as other types of cancer.
Breanna earned her bachelor’s degree in nursing from UNMC College of Nursing. She is also an Oncology Certified Nurse. She’s been an oncology nurse navigator for nearly six years with eight years prior experience on a medical/ surgical/oncology inpatient unit. “It’s an honor to be there for patients and their loved ones throughout a cancer journey,” Breanna said.
Breanna
Nedved, OCN, BSN, RN
Donor Corner
We are grateful for generous donors in our community, such as Charles Bachinski, who supports the April Sampson Cancer Center in memory of his wife, Gail. A bench with her name sits outside the front doors.
“Helping support their understanding of their cancer care is so important, as well as providing resources along the way.”
Breanna enjoys spending time with her family and stays busy with her three children’s activities.
Listen to podcast:
Learn more about nurse navigation at BryanHealth.org/ CancerNurseNavigators or call 402-481-7900.
I like the bench because people who knew her might see it and remember her. She was so dynamic in everything she did. Although she’s gone, at least there’s remembrance of her here.
— Charles Bachinski
Learn more:
Read Charles’ story:
Call the Bryan Foundation at 402-481-8605 or visit AprilSampsonCancerCenter.org/Give for more information on giving opportunities.
Enhancing the Patient Experience: Volunteer Support at the April Sampson Cancer Center
Volunteers play an important role in supporting patients and families at the April Sampson Cancer Center. Their presence helps create a calm, welcoming environment for all guests and complements the clinical care.
Volunteer and Customer Care roles include:
• Canine Partner
Visit guests in the waiting areas with a trained and certified therapy dog
• Comfort Hands Partner
Provide non-therapeutic hand massages to infusion patients
• Difference Baker
Bake and deliver cookies to guests
• Performance Partner
Provide musical entertainment by singing or playing the piano or other musical instruments
• Resource Center Partner
Assist guests with physical and electronic cancer resources
• Wayfinder
Assist guests with wayfinding by escorting/transporting guests
• Wig Boutique
Support individuals experiencing hair loss due to cancer treatment by assisting them with the wig selection process
These volunteer services help foster a supportive, patient-centered atmosphere and reflect the Cancer Center’s commitment to whole-person care.
Anyone interested in volunteering can visit BryanHealth.org/Volunteer for more information.
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/CancerNewsletter
Kearney Cancer Center Opening Soon
New Wig Program for Cancer Patients
Each person in cancer treatment can receive two free wigs, thanks to generous donors and the EBeauty wig exchange program.
• Discreet and private salon space
• Wigs and head shaving
• Wig care retail
• Accepting wig donations through Pay it Forward program
Our dedicated stylist is available on-site one day a week. For appointments, call 402-481-7973.
November 11 • 5-7 p.m.
• Interactive booths including giant inflatable lungs and a bronchoscopy simulator
• Lung cancer survivor
• Panel of specialists
Sampson Cancer Center 4101 Tiger Lily Road, Lincoln
