The words “breast cancer.” They inevitably bring a range of thoughts and feelings, however it’s quite possible you may not necessarily think of the many challenging physical and emotional side effects of treatment from chemo, radiation, surgeries, or other means. That is where the unique nonprofit TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation has been playing an invaluable role in the breast cancer space of metro Atlanta, the state of Georgia, and beyond for breast cancer patients of all backgrounds, including men, the last two decades. It was the breast cancer journey of two-time breast cancer survivor Jill Binkley that led to the launch of TurningPoint 20 years ago this fall. Binkley saw firsthand the void in survivorship services that existed for breast cancer patients from head to toe following their respective treatment regimen and wanted to do something to fill that void. At the time, less than 10 percent of all patients were told about the importance of incorporating exercise and rehabilitation into their treatment plans not only to assist with a complete recovery and become cancer free but prevent recurrence. Being a physical therapist by training, one of Binkley’s priorities was to address increasing mobility, arm strength and range of motion. A goal for every patient is to see them return to participating in the activities they enjoyed prior to their diagnosis and subsequent treatments. Some examples include raising a child into the air, swinging a tennis racket, or reaching for a wine glass on a kitchen cabinet shelf.
TurningPoint’s core, essential services include physical therapy, massage therapy, emotional support, nutritional counseling, exercise classes, and education programs. They are offered in-person at the two clinic locations in Sandy Springs, 8110 Roswell Road and then at 349 Decatur St. SE Suite M in downtown Atlanta, as well as virtually.
Should you know a breast cancer patient, please tell them TurningPoint – with its friendly, knowledgeable, and compassionate staff of therapists and clinical support team- is a research-backed resource to assist in one’s journey. Nearly every staff member has a connection to breast cancer having either experienced it or having known a loved one or someone close to them who has or had breast cancer. No patient is ever turned away due to an inability to provide adequate insurance or limited financial means. While some insurance plans are accepted, the actual billable cost of service is never fully reimbursed. Coupled with meeting the needs of patients requiring financial assistance and the shortfall from insurance reimbursements, there is an ongoing need for outside funding. You can help as a corporate sponsor, individual sponsor, contributor of different goods and services, and volunteer. The opportunities to assist come through various events and initiatives throughout the year, including the Strides for Survivors walk in January, the Pink Affair signature gala in Mach, the Think Pink golf tournament in October, and Toys for Tots/TurningPoint holiday golf outing in December. To learn about the ways to support TurningPoint in its mission, along with a full schedule of events, visit myturningpoint.org.
