 I'm physical therapist Jennifer Root, one of a team of 50 therapists, physicians, and healthcare providers with MidMichigan Health who are certified in cancer rehabilitation. MidMichigan Health is a regional leader in cancer diagnosis and treatment, specializing in breast, prostate, lung, head and neck, bladder, and colorectal cancer, just to name a few. Cancer as a disease and its treatment can be physically and emotionally exhausting for patients. We now know through clinical research that rehabilitation, including exercise, is a way to increase patient's stamina and strength and help them return to good health during and after cancer treatment. Patients with many cancer diagnoses, even chronic or long-term cancer, may benefit from our STAR rehabilitation program. It can be offered before, during, or after active treatment. Based on conventional medicine, including orthopedic and cardiac rehabilitation, the STAR program offers physical, occupational, and speech therapy to help patients maintain or improve muscle strength, range of motion, balance, and functional mobility. Individualized plans also address specific areas where cancer and its treatment may be causing pain, swelling, neuropathy, or lack of function. The STAR program also includes nutritional therapy and stress management. Therapists, physicians, and dietitians team up to help patients heal both physically and emotionally, increasing strength and energy, alleviating pain, and improving well-being. The STAR cancer rehabilitation program was developed by oncology rehab partners, led by nationally recognized cancer rehabilitation expert and physician Julie Silver M.D., also a breast cancer survivor. Certification of Mid-Michigan Health professionals assures patients and physicians that our program meets the highest standards for care. Symptoms of cancer and side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy can be improved or even alleviated through cancer rehabilitation. For our patients with cancer, Mid-Michigan Health is proud to offer STAR rehabilitation services throughout the region. Learn more about the STAR program by calling 989-839-3584.