Karen Werkmeister helps heal her heart with cardiopulmonary rehab
Karen Werkmeister never imagined she would face a heart scare. She had never experienced any heart issues or significant health concerns. She felt good, had no symptoms of trouble, and lived her days without any warning signs—until January 23, 2024.That morning, at around 11:00am, Karen noticed a peculiar sensation. It felt like indigestion, a discomfort in her chest as though she needed to burp. Assuming it was something minor, she carried on with her day. However, the feeling lingered. Hours passed, and the discomfort never quite went away. It wasn’t until 7:30pm that a sharp pain shot through her back. Conditions were less than ideal for travel to the emergency room, yet something inside her told her she needed to get checked out.
Karen made it to the emergency room, where initial tests revealed elevated enzyme levels—an indication of heart distress. Karen was transferred by ambulance to North Platte for further evaluation. The results were alarming. The doctors found that her widow-maker artery was significantly blocked—60% in one place and 80% in another. The next step was clear: Karen needed stents to restore proper blood flow.
After undergoing the procedure, Karen spent three days in the hospital. She was offered the option of participating in cardiopulmonary rehab a program that helps individuals recover from heart events or disease. At first, Karen was unsure she wanted to participate in the program. It wasn’t until a few weeks after the procedure, when she found herself struggling to catch her breath, that she decided to give it a try. She enrolled in the program at Tri Valley Health System, a decision that would change her life for the better.
Under the care of cardiopulmonary rehab therapists Julie Sayer, Jordan Arterburn, and Jessica Paisley, Karen found support, guidance, and motivation. "The girls took good care of me and were just so excellent," she recalled. She attended rehab three times a week, dedicating herself to a regimen that included 20 minutes on the treadmill, 20 minutes on the Nu Step, and 20 minutes lifting weights. Throughout each session, her therapists monitored her closely, checking her blood pressure and ensuring she was progressing safely. Alongside the physical workouts, Karen received valuable educational materials on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Karen said, “the program was so good for me and in fact my A1C dropped from 5.7 to 5.2 after completing the program.”
Karen grew stronger with each session, and when she finally completed the program, it was a moment of celebration. To mark the occasion, Julie Sayer baked angel food cake with fruit, a sweet reward for Karen’s hard work and perseverance.
Today, Karen continues to stay active. She loves participating in the Fitness Reaching Older Generation (FROG) exercise group, which meets twice a week at the Congregational Church. She also hopes to increase her walking and remain as active as possible. Looking ahead, Karen knows she still has a lot of living to do, and thanks to cardiopulmonary rehab, she has the strength and ability to do just that.
Karen made it to the emergency room, where initial tests revealed elevated enzyme levels—an indication of heart distress. Karen was transferred by ambulance to North Platte for further evaluation. The results were alarming. The doctors found that her widow-maker artery was significantly blocked—60% in one place and 80% in another. The next step was clear: Karen needed stents to restore proper blood flow.
After undergoing the procedure, Karen spent three days in the hospital. She was offered the option of participating in cardiopulmonary rehab a program that helps individuals recover from heart events or disease. At first, Karen was unsure she wanted to participate in the program. It wasn’t until a few weeks after the procedure, when she found herself struggling to catch her breath, that she decided to give it a try. She enrolled in the program at Tri Valley Health System, a decision that would change her life for the better.
Under the care of cardiopulmonary rehab therapists Julie Sayer, Jordan Arterburn, and Jessica Paisley, Karen found support, guidance, and motivation. "The girls took good care of me and were just so excellent," she recalled. She attended rehab three times a week, dedicating herself to a regimen that included 20 minutes on the treadmill, 20 minutes on the Nu Step, and 20 minutes lifting weights. Throughout each session, her therapists monitored her closely, checking her blood pressure and ensuring she was progressing safely. Alongside the physical workouts, Karen received valuable educational materials on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Karen said, “the program was so good for me and in fact my A1C dropped from 5.7 to 5.2 after completing the program.”
Karen grew stronger with each session, and when she finally completed the program, it was a moment of celebration. To mark the occasion, Julie Sayer baked angel food cake with fruit, a sweet reward for Karen’s hard work and perseverance.
Today, Karen continues to stay active. She loves participating in the Fitness Reaching Older Generation (FROG) exercise group, which meets twice a week at the Congregational Church. She also hopes to increase her walking and remain as active as possible. Looking ahead, Karen knows she still has a lot of living to do, and thanks to cardiopulmonary rehab, she has the strength and ability to do just that.
The Tri Valley Medical Foundation Board is pleased to announce the hiring of Jill Goodwin as the new Foundation Director. The Foundation Board interviewed three candidates on Friday, June 14 and then approved hiring Goodwin. Jill will be moving with her husband Zach and two children from Lincoln, Nebraska and will begin her job duties on July 30, 2024.
Jill was born and raised in Holdrege. She received her Bachelor's of Science Degree in Journalism from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. After graduating UNK, she worked in advertising at the Kearney Hub and then moved on to retail management with Bath and Body Works. After moving to Lincoln, she worked in residential property management. Most recently, she was a legal assistant to an estate and business law attorney in Lincoln. Jill’s background is primarily in customer relations, sales and management. “Jill has a passion for people and service that will serve her well as the Foundation Director,” said Jackie Shoemaker, Foundation Board President. Goodwin will begin her career as Foundation Director by coordinating the Foundation’s Annual Pro Am Golf Tournament, which is set for September 10. Jill spends her time with her children, ages two and one, loves to read, spend time outdoors, and traveling. She said “I look forward to meeting everyone and developing new relationships and partnerships throughout the area. I am excited to help in the mission of Tri Valley Health System. Cambridge is a great community with many assets and we are thrilled to be joining the Cambridge community and moving closer to my family.”
Established in 1990, the Tri Valley Medical Foundation is a charitable tax-exempt corporation formed for the sole purpose of supporting and enhancing the healthcare mission of Tri Valley Health System. Thanks to their generous gifts, donors to the Medical Foundation have helped Tri Valley Health System achieve excellence in equipment, facilities and programs. Tri Valley Health System is grateful for the support and advances in medical technology it has allowed.
Jill was born and raised in Holdrege. She received her Bachelor's of Science Degree in Journalism from the University of Nebraska at Kearney. After graduating UNK, she worked in advertising at the Kearney Hub and then moved on to retail management with Bath and Body Works. After moving to Lincoln, she worked in residential property management. Most recently, she was a legal assistant to an estate and business law attorney in Lincoln. Jill’s background is primarily in customer relations, sales and management. “Jill has a passion for people and service that will serve her well as the Foundation Director,” said Jackie Shoemaker, Foundation Board President. Goodwin will begin her career as Foundation Director by coordinating the Foundation’s Annual Pro Am Golf Tournament, which is set for September 10. Jill spends her time with her children, ages two and one, loves to read, spend time outdoors, and traveling. She said “I look forward to meeting everyone and developing new relationships and partnerships throughout the area. I am excited to help in the mission of Tri Valley Health System. Cambridge is a great community with many assets and we are thrilled to be joining the Cambridge community and moving closer to my family.”
Established in 1990, the Tri Valley Medical Foundation is a charitable tax-exempt corporation formed for the sole purpose of supporting and enhancing the healthcare mission of Tri Valley Health System. Thanks to their generous gifts, donors to the Medical Foundation have helped Tri Valley Health System achieve excellence in equipment, facilities and programs. Tri Valley Health System is grateful for the support and advances in medical technology it has allowed.
Ebbers promoted to Chief Ancillary Officer
Tri Valley Health System would like to announce the promotion of Ross Ebbers to Chief Ancillary Officer effective June 27, 2024. Ross has worked at Tri Valley Health System as the Director of Imaging since 1997. Ross also began overseeing the Cardiopulmonary and Sleep Departments in 2017. Ross is registered with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Clay Jordan, CEO, said, "It is with great pleasure that I announce the addition of Ross Ebbers to our Senior Level Team. Ross will provide valuable insight and experience to the direction of Tri Valley Health System. Ross has always been a valuable asset to our team and is very well respected."
Tri Valley Health System has positive impact on the area economy
Tri Valley Health System does more than provide health care services to the area. Tri Valley Health System also has a positive economic impact on the overall fiscal health of the area. Through a combination of traditional health care services, fitness and wellness programs, telehealth technology, and community partnerships, Tri Valley Health System’s commitment to health extends far beyond the hospital walls.
A study conducted by Heartland Health Alliance that utilized 2019 Tri Valley Health System data showed that Tri Valley Health System creates 132.4 direct jobs, creates $22,196,379 in direct revenue, and directly generates $256,164 in state or local taxes. After taking into consideration indirect impact and induced impact, the total impact that Tri Valley Health System creates is 264.2 jobs, $42,972,159 in revenue, and $2,419.984 in state or local taxes.
"Tri Valley Health System is one of the largest employers in the area. We offer great employment opportunities with benefits. We also recruit professionals to live, raise families, and spend money in our communities. Tri Valley Health System is extremely proud to be able to support the area’s economy in such a positive way. We also recognize the fact that a thriving economy takes an entire effort among individuals and businesses; Tri Valley Health System only thrives with the support of everyone," said Jessica Fisher, Tri Valley Health System CEO.
Tri Valley Health System does more than provide health care services to the area. Tri Valley Health System also has a positive economic impact on the overall fiscal health of the area. Through a combination of traditional health care services, fitness and wellness programs, telehealth technology, and community partnerships, Tri Valley Health System’s commitment to health extends far beyond the hospital walls.
A study conducted by Heartland Health Alliance that utilized 2019 Tri Valley Health System data showed that Tri Valley Health System creates 132.4 direct jobs, creates $22,196,379 in direct revenue, and directly generates $256,164 in state or local taxes. After taking into consideration indirect impact and induced impact, the total impact that Tri Valley Health System creates is 264.2 jobs, $42,972,159 in revenue, and $2,419.984 in state or local taxes.
"Tri Valley Health System is one of the largest employers in the area. We offer great employment opportunities with benefits. We also recruit professionals to live, raise families, and spend money in our communities. Tri Valley Health System is extremely proud to be able to support the area’s economy in such a positive way. We also recognize the fact that a thriving economy takes an entire effort among individuals and businesses; Tri Valley Health System only thrives with the support of everyone," said Jessica Fisher, Tri Valley Health System CEO.
Tri Valley Health System offers a new approach to hip replacement with Dr. Chris Wilkinson
The Conformis Hip System, introduced in July 2018, is the only primary total hip replacement system on the market designed with 3D imaging technology to provide a stem and acetabular cup size that matches each patient’s specific anatomy. The implant system includes a single-piece stem with patient-specific neck, acetabular cup, iPoly XE® (highly crosslinked vitamin-e infused UHMWPE) polyethylene liner, and a choice of ceramic or cobalt chrome femoral head. 3D imaging technology is also used to create a pre-surgical plan, which accompanies a set of disposable patient-specific 3D printed jigs, to aid in implant positioning. Dr. Chris Wilkinson is able to perform this revolutionary hip replacement procedure at Tri Valley Health System. This system is also available for knee replacements as well. For more information on Conformis joint replacements at Tri Valley Health System call 308-697-1172.
The Conformis Hip System, introduced in July 2018, is the only primary total hip replacement system on the market designed with 3D imaging technology to provide a stem and acetabular cup size that matches each patient’s specific anatomy. The implant system includes a single-piece stem with patient-specific neck, acetabular cup, iPoly XE® (highly crosslinked vitamin-e infused UHMWPE) polyethylene liner, and a choice of ceramic or cobalt chrome femoral head. 3D imaging technology is also used to create a pre-surgical plan, which accompanies a set of disposable patient-specific 3D printed jigs, to aid in implant positioning. Dr. Chris Wilkinson is able to perform this revolutionary hip replacement procedure at Tri Valley Health System. This system is also available for knee replacements as well. For more information on Conformis joint replacements at Tri Valley Health System call 308-697-1172.
