Survivor: Judy Fells

In the two years since Judy Fells of Storm Lake has completed her treatments at the June E. Nylen Cancer Center, she has a lot to sing about.Fells, who teaches music classes at Storm Lake High School, found strength and peace in playing the piano during the time she received chemotherapy and radiation treatments for breast cancer.Her strength has turned into a message of hope in 2008.Fells is one of 11 cancer survivors featured on Nylen Cancer Center billboards in communities in the tri-state area. Hers is on Hwy 71 on the east edge of Storm Lake. Each billboard features a hometown resident who has received treatment at the cancer center and a positive message about treatment.“Judy and our other survivors are truly amazing people,” said Karen Van De Steeg, Nylen Cancer Center executive director. “They inspire us every day. We featured her and others on our billboards to pay tribute to their spirit, and showcase their positive news and our life-giving care.”Looking at the promise of the New Year, it’s easy for Fells to remember how much care she received during her treatment time at the Nylen Cancer Center. In addition to turning to music for encouragement, Fells also found her support from family, friends and students with cards and letters of encouragement.“My husband, Ken, was there for me 100 percent.”The staff at the Nylen Cancer Center was also supportive throughout her numerous visits.“My experience there was very positive,” said Fells. “I had wonderful, caring nurses, radiologists and doctors – in particular, Drs. Lau, Wender and Michalak. “I chose to do my radiation treatments in Sioux City because of Dr. Michalak. It was the right choice,” said Fells.Eight board-certified physicians at the Nylen Cancer Center and a staff of 100 employees work together to deliver and provide radiation therapy and chemotherapy at the center.In addition to offering clinical trials to help patients live longer and increase understanding of cancer, the Nylen Cancer Center provides nutritional, spiritual and social-emotional support. The medical oncologists there also see patients at 16 area satellite clinics, including a clinic at Buena Vista Regional Medical Center in Storm Lake.Now that it’s been two years since completing her treatment, Fells is still singing. Not only does she teach private music lessons in her home, she works out, lifts weights and walks on a regular basis.How is her quality of life after treatment at the Nylen Cancer Center?“Stupendous!” says Fells. “I’m doing more now than I did before cancer!”Her advice to those who have been recently diagnosed with cancer: “I was terrified of chemotherapy, but there is life after therapy – a good life!”Next || Previous || Share your story