Bryan Health Celebrates Cancer Survivors with Ribbons on Survivor Trees

Bryan Health is saluting cancer survivors and raising funds for cancer support programs by placing ribbons on survivor trees at both of its hospitals in Lincoln. National Cancer Survivors Day was Sunday, June 4.

Cancer survivors, or loved ones of a cancer survivor, are encouraged to purchase a ribbon to be placed on a survivor tree at both Bryan East Campus and Bryan West Campus. Ribbons will feature the survivor’s name and be part of a colorful display outside each hospital entrance through June 12. The display aims to provide hope to hospital visitors and help other survivors by raising funds for cancer support programs, both today and at the future April Sampson Cancer Center in south Lincoln.

Lime-Sized Tumor

Sandi Larson is a longtime Lincoln resident. In fall 2021, she experienced abnormal visual and spatial issues, causing imbalance and dizziness. Doctors discovered a tumor the size of a lime in her brain. It was malignant.

Two weeks after the tumor was found, Sandi underwent brain surgery at Bryan West Campus. Doctors successfully removed the mass. Tests later revealed her brain was not the area where her cancer originated. Her official diagnosis was adenocarcinoma with an undetected source. She spent three weeks in the hospital after surgery and was given three months to live upon discharge.

Today, Sandi’s recovery is nothing short of remarkable. She is cancer free and receives quarterly scans, which have shown no recurrence of cancer. Cognitively, she’s remained sharp and continues to focus on her balance. Most importantly, she relishes her time with loved ones and grandchildren. Sandi’s family has honored her with a ribbon on the survivor tree to celebrate beating brain cancer.

For more information and to purchase a ribbon for the survivor trees, visit bryanhealth.org/salutesurvivors.