Jackie Sisk is a five-star conversationalist – a talker in the best kind of way.
“A great patient,” Rock Valley Physical Therapy’s Bethany Daly, PTA, said of the ever upbeat and outgoing Sisk. “Our treatment sessions usually lasted about an hour, and it can be a long hour if you have a patient who isn’t a talker and prefers quiet, which is OK. But Jackie was fun to work with and has an enthusiastic sense of humor. We would share stories about our families and friends.’’
Sisk, Daly says, was dealing with lymphedema, a chronic condition that causes swelling in the body’s tissues due to a buildup of lymph fluid. Lymphedema is caused by a malfunctioning lymphatic system, which is a network of vessels and glands that helps remove excess fluid and fight infection. Lymphedema can affect any part of the body, but it usually develops in the arms or legs.
Dr. Ronald Kane, DPM, referred Sisk to Rock Valley’s Waterloo, Iowa-based clinic, with lower-half issues caused by her lymphedema.
“Jackie was very compliant with the protocol we follow for lymphedema, and she had excellent results with decreased swelling and edema,” Daly said of Sisk and her diligent and dedicated work to get better and achieve her goals. “I was also able to help get a compression pump for her long-term lymphedema management.’’
A Physical Therapist Assistant for 31 years and a member of the Rock Valley family the past 14, Daly, ever caring and compassionate in her approach, says knowing she and Rock Valley can provide help for lymphedema patients is comforting and encouraging.
“I enjoy working with lymphedema patients because of the noticeable results that can occur quickly if the patient uses the protocol they are taught during our treatments,” Daly said. “I get satisfaction when a patient is discharged from us and they are able to wear new shoes, wear shorts, feel more secure with their body and are able to live with the least number of interventions to manage the lymphedema.’’
For Sisk, physical therapy with Daly – a process that covered six weeks – was successful on all fronts.
“I absolutely love Bethany,” said Sisk, a lifelong Waterloo resident. “I just had a (all is) normal checkup with my vascular (physician). I found Bethany to be caring and kind. She was patient and open to questions.’’
Sisk and Daly both understand dealing with lymphedema is a process, but diligence in addressing all issues related can better one’s overall health.
“I feel so much better,” Sisk said, having worked with Daly and Rock Valley Physical Therapy. “There is still some occasional leg pain, but it’s a process and I have Bethany to thank for where I am. I am so happy to have found Rock Valley. It was a beautiful experience and if any help is needed, it is my first choice.’’
By: Johnny Marx, Rock Valley Storyteller