Strength Through Struggles: The Power of Fitness During Chemo and Beyond

The episode features a conversation with Jessika Wheeler, an occupational therapist specializing in cancer rehabilitation, discussing the role of occupational therapy in supporting individuals through their cancer journey, including prehabilitation and rehabilitation aspects. They delve into how occupational therapy helps manage physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges faced by cancer patients, emphasizing the benefits of tailored exercise programs and highlighting the importance of assembling a supportive care team to improve overall well-being during and after treatment.

00:00 Welcome to Saddle Up Live: A Journey Through Cancer and Therapy

01:01 Discovering Occupational Therapy: Jessika Wheeler's Story

02:24 The Impact of Occupational Therapy on Cancer Rehabilitation

03:02 Navigating the Emotional and Physical Challenges of Cancer

07:18 Exploring the Benefits of Exercise During Cancer Treatment

12:19 The Importance of a Supportive Team in Cancer Recovery

18:09 Encouragement and Final Thoughts: Embracing the Journey

Navigating Cancer Rehabilitation with Occupational Therapy

Jessika is an occupational therapist currently working as the ReVital Cancer Rehabilitation Program Director in Minnesota with NovaCare Rehabilitation.  She graduated with a master’s degree from the University of North Dakota where she focused on expanding the role of occupational therapy in oncology care.  Jessika has further specialized in cancer rehabilitation, cognitive rehabilitation, and lymphedema treatment.  She serves as a Select Medical faculty member and mentor in oncology and cognitive rehabilitation.  She enjoys hiking, camping and traveling with her husband and spending her summers with the St. Paul Saints as Ushertainer “Paula Bunyan”.