Community Hospital Rehabilitation Center proudly announces that 11 team members—including ten rehabilitation professionals (physical and occupational therapists and two physical therapist assistants) and Community Hospital’s Oncology Director—have earned Clinical Cancer Exercise Specialist (CCES) certification through the University of Northern Colorado Cancer Rehabilitation Institute (UNCCRI).

This advanced training equips clinicians to safely and effectively design exercise programs for individuals undergoing or recovering from cancer treatment, supporting strength, resilience, and overall well-being. Specialized exercise is an important component for cancer patients as they navigate the side effects and complications from surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. This initiative reflects Community Hospital’s commitment to better outcomes for oncology patients through expanded care options close to home.

The program, requested by Dr. Benjamin George, Community Hospital Medical Oncologist, emphasizes the importance of integrating exercise into cancer care to improve recovery and quality of life.

The multi-day course was led by Mike Lazio, Clinical Coordinator, and Buck Covington, Research Coordinator, both from UNCCRI. Following the training, the instructors shared: “This was one of the most engaged and committed groups we have worked

with. The level of professionalism and dedication demonstrated throughout the course made the experience exceptional. It is always an honor to collaborate with healthcare teams that prioritize meaningful education and patient-centered care.”

Emilyne Sis, Physical Therapist, reflected on the experience:

“The Clinical Cancer Exercise Specialist course was a great experience. It was challenging in different ways as we learned about the biology and foundations of cancer. The instructors were invested in this course and their passion for treating patients within this population was inspiring. It was rewarding to see our team come together to better ourselves as therapists and as a group. Now that we have 10 therapists certified, our next steps are to decide how to implement what we learned to best serve patients in our community.”

This training was made possible in part by a grant from Community Hospital Health Foundation, which used funds designated to cancer care to improve cancer care and patient experience and outcomes.

Jessica Bortner, Executive Director of Community Hospital Health Foundation, said, “We are grateful to have cancer care funds entrusted to us to help bring advanced education and certifications to our healthcare team. Because of this training, we can now offer additional supportive services and expand cancer care options for patients close to home.”

Buddy Goodenkauf, Oncology Services Director at Community Hospital, who was also certified, emphasized the impact on patient care, “Adding certified cancer exercise specialists to our team enhances the continuum of care we provide. This service will help patients regain strength and improve quality of life during and after treatment.”

The new service will soon be available through the Rehabilitation Center, with a physician referral required. For more information, patients and providers can contact Buddy Goodenkauf at Community Hospital.