NLN Expert Clinicians

The National Lymphedema Network established the NLN Expert Clinician designation in 2021 to elevate the standards of therapeutic care being provided to patients with lymphatic diseases by implementing a mentorship with expert clinicians in their fields with live competency-based assessment on multiple facets of current lymphatic treatment.

If you are a clinician interested in the NLN Expert Clinician certification, please click here for more information.

Karen Ashforth

MS, OTR, CLT-LANA

California

Karen Ashforth, MS, OTR/L, CLT-LANA has been an occupational therapist for more than 40 years. Specializing as a board-certified hand therapist led to her interest in lymphedema and lipedema over 20 years ago. Karen’s passions in are equipmentinnovation and development, treatment of underlying fibrosis and inflammation, and remote care. She is considered an international expert in pneumatic compression. Karen frequently speaks in academic, clinical, and professional settings and performs clinical research that she presents and publishes nationally and internationally. Karen has a lymphedema and lipedema practice at a hospital-based outpatient clinic in Stockton, California, and has a telehealth consultation practice at www.karenashforth.com.She is also an adjunct faculty member with the University of the Pacific in the Doctoral Physical Therapy Program.

**Jennifer Baer**

PT, CLT
**Massachusetts**

Jennifer received her undergraduate Physical Therapy degree from the University of New England in Biddeford, Maine in 1992, and has spent almost 24 years treating patients with various diagnoses. In 2016, she decided to pursue specialized CLT training to further her education and knowledge in Oncology Rehab and vascular issues after discovering the increased need for treatment and management of lymphedema and lymphedema-related diagnoses. This comprehensive training provided a skill set needed to help with decreasing edema, decreasing pain, improving mobility and restoring a functional lifestyle for patients dealing with lymphedema. Jennfer continues to advocate the importance of lymphedema knowledge. She has spent most of her career caring for and helping patients regain their independence, decreasing their pain and improving their quality of life, and remains an exciting passion for her.

**Sarena Banas**

PT, DPT, CLT-LANA, Cert MDT
**Pennsylvania**

Sarena Banas, PT, DPT, is the current Oncology-Lymphedema Team Leader of Good Shepherd Penn Partners (GSPP). She received her Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Physical Therapy from Thomas Jefferson University in 2004 and Doctor of Physical Therapy from Temple University in 2009. Additional certifications include Certified Lymphedema Therapist, Lymphology Association of North America, and Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy. She focuses on program development and developing ways to interact with other members of the Oncology team both within Penn Medicine and within Good Shepherd Penn Partners. In 2021, she collaborated with Penn Medicine in obtaining Center of Excellence for Lymphatic Education and Research Network. She works closely with Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation team to bridge the gap between research and clinical applications to specialized patient populations including oncology and lymphedema. She serves as faculty for the ABPTRFE Women’s Health Residency and facilitates the development of the oncology and lymphedema curriculum. She currently assists in Physical Therapy education at Arcadia University and Montgomery County Community College.

Denise M. Baylor

OTR, LMT, CLT-LANA, CSWS

Texas

Missy Baylor “Missy” is an occupational therapist specializing in lymphedema therapy and wound care. She obtained her massage therapy license in 1996, completed her lymphedema therapy training at the Dr. Vodder School in Walchsee, Austria in 1998, and obtained her LANA (Lymphology Association of North America) certification in 2002. In 2009, she received her BS in Psychology from University of Houston Clear Lake, and Master of Occupational Therapy from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston in 2015. She became wound care certified in 2018 through the American Board of Wound Healing. She began treating lymphedema patients in 1998 at the Hyperbaric, Wound Care and Lymphedema Clinic at Memorial Hermann Hospital in the Texas Medical Center and after obtaining her OT license, returned to the Texas Medical Center location to inpatient acute care and lymphedema before transferring to Memorial Hermann Northeast in November of 2016 to start a lymphedema program. In 2020, she transitioned to private practice specializing in treating vascular, oncology (including head and neck), congenital and post-surgical lymphedema and lipedema. In January 2022, in addition to her private practice, she began working part time providing lymphedema therapy at Houston Methodist Sugar Land. She has been a speaker for local breast cancer support groups and educational venues and presented at several National Lymphedema Network conferences. She is a member of the American Occupational Therapy Association, Texas Occupational Therapy Association, Lymphology Association of North America, National Lymphedema Network, American Vein and Lymphatic Society and Lymphatic Education & Research Network.

**Bethany Beckwith**

OTR/L, CLT-LANA
**New York**
Bethany Beckwith graduated from Ithaca College with her Master’s in Occupational Therapy in 2012 and was certified by the Academy of Lymphatic Studies in Complete Decongestive Therapy in 2015. Since that time, she has been serving the Southern Tier region of upstate New York at UHS Binghamton General Hospital. Bethany has worked very hard in the development of the outpatient lymphedema therapy clinic which has quadrupled in size and volume since she began. Along with a breast cancer rehabilitation program that her clinic has developed, she has also worked with UHS providers to implement a head and neck cancer rehabilitation program. Currently, Bethany is a post-professional student in the University of Pittsburg Doctor of Clinical Science in Occupational Therapy program. Bethany is passionate about promotion and advocacy for the lymphedema community in order to improve the health care experience.

Crystal Bennett

OTR/L, CLT, CLWT

Nebraska

Crystal is a 2002 graduate of College of St. Maryin Omaha, Nebraska earning her Bachelor’s of Science degree in Occupational Therapy. She currently works as anoccupational therapist at a critical access hospital in Syracuse, NE working in both the outpatient and inpatient settings. Crystal is a Certified Lymphedema Therapist receiving training through the Norton School of Lymphatics in 2008 and specializes in lymphedema and wound care. In 2021, Crystal earned the Lymphedema Therapist Expert Clinician Designation from the National Lymphedema Network. Crystal earned her Wound Therapy Certification through the International Lymphedema and Wound Training Institute in 2020. Crystal is passionate about educating the community, local providers and other therapists on identification and proper treatment of lipedema, lymphedema and other edema related conditions. She currently serves as a Nebraska representative for the Lymphedema Treatment Act and has represented Nebraska during Lymphedema Lobby Days in Washington D.C., lobbying for insurance coverage for lymphedema. Crystal also has experience in hand therapy and in addition to lymphedema, enjoys treating all conditions of the elbow, wrist and hand. Crystal lives on an acreage in rural Nebraska with her husband and 2 high school age children. Crystal enjoys spending time watching her children in all their school activities, sports, band and cheerleading. She also loves traveling, working in the garden, and crafting/upcycling thrift store finds.

Rochelle Brannan

MPT CLT-LANA

California

Over the last twenty-years, Rochelle has worked in a variety of physical therapy settings ranging from community-based hospitals to private practices. About a decade ago, she recognized the need for improving out-patient physical therapy services for oncology patients. As aspecifically-trained physical therapist, Rochelle understands how and why physical therapy rehabilitation and post-operative rehabilitation improves a patient’s quality of life from cancer treatment. Most oncology rehabilitation treatments focus on manual therapy interventions to decrease scar tissue impairments, resolve axillary web syndrome (cording) with the optimal goalto restore the patient to rehabilitation functional baseline. Education and instruction for self-care management of secondary lymphedema from lymph nodedissection is a critical component of oncology rehabilitation. In order to maintain Stage I reversible secondary lymphedema, a patient must be taught to recognize the presentation of arm lymphedema. Manual lymphatic drainage massage is one of the many tools to manage secondary lymphedema. Clinical evidence continues to show that physical therapy before, during and after cancer treatment can help speed functional recovery, improve quality of life and reduce risk of complications later in life.

Sylvia Bruno

PT, CLT-LANA

Florida

Sylvia Bruno has been a certified lymphedema therapist since 2010, and works with cancer-related lymphedema, cancer rehab, and primary and secondary lymphedema. Sylvia currently works in Manchester CT at ECHN, MMH, cancer center.

**Milissa Christian**

PT, CLT-LANA
**Texas**
Milissa Christian, PT, CLT-LANA is a 1986 graduate of Texas Woman’s University with a Bachelors of Science degree. She received her lymphedema certification through the Academy of Lymphatic Studies in 2007. She went on to complete her Advanced Lymphedema Management, also through ACOLS, in 2019.
Her 36 years of experience have provided her opportunities to care for patients across multiple settings. These settings and responsibilities have included Acute Care (including serving as a Clinical Instructor and the Clinical Coordinator for Clinical Education for four years), Wound Care, Rehabilitation, Work Hardening, including workstation ergonomic assessments, SNF Care (serving as PT Supervisor for 11 years), Home Health services, Pelvic Floor PT, and Outpatient PT services.
Milissa was the first CLT with the Temple Main Baylor Scott & White Health facility in Temple, Texas. She has been instrumental in growing that program-serving patients with primary and secondary lymphedema, lipedema, post operative and edematous conditions of various origins.
Milissa’s focus is on furthering the program sharing her passion to serve and positively affect the quality of life for these patients.

**Shelley Smith DiCecco**

PT, PhD, CLT-LANA, CI-CS
**Georgia**
Dr. Shelley Smith DiCecco founded LymphEd in 2017. She received her Master of Physical Therapy Degree from the University of St. Augustine in January of 2000. She became a Woman’s Health Specialist for Pelvic Floor Disorders in 2000 and a Certified Lymphedema Therapist in the CasleySmith Method in 2001. Dr. DiCecco received her PhD from Texas Woman’s University in the Philosophy of Physical Therapy in 2012. Her research and dissertation were on treatment techniques for females with genital lymphedema with or without lower extremity involvement. Dr. DiCecco completed her Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) Certification in 2013 and her training as a Casley-Smith International Certified Instructor in 2016. Dr. DiCecco assisted with or lead several continuing education courses, conferences, and seminars, as well as presented at community events on lymphedema, pelvic floor disorders, and other orthopedic conditions over the years, both nationally and internationally. She has published articles on lymphedema and pelvic floor disorders. Dr. DiCecco is working on several studies currently from qualitative cadaveric research, quality of life tools, and perceived confidence in evaluating/treating lymphedema by medical professionals. The aim of these studies is to improve the knowledge for the medical community and treatment options for patients. Dr. DiCecco contributed a chapter in The Puzzle, a book on lymphedema. Dr. DiCecco developed the lymphedema and pelvic floor service lines for the Sports Rehabilitation Center in Atlanta, Georgia. She currently is Director of the two programs and treats patients several hours a week at the Brookhaven location. Dr. DiCecco is on faculty as an Assistant Professor at the Georgia’s Campus for the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in the Physical Therapy Department. Dr. DiCecco joined the board for a non-profit organization, the Lighthouse Lymphedema Network (LLN) in 2002 and she is the lead Grant Writer for the organization. She is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association and its Oncology, Women’s Health, and Education Sections and is a member of the Lymphology Association of North America. She is the Vice President for the Casley-Smith International Lymphedema Instructor board.

**Noli Dioneda**

MS, PT, DPT, CLT-CWS, CCES, Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Oncologic PT
**Florida**
Noli Dioneda has Bachelor of Science degrees in Biology and Physical Therapy from Manila, Philippines in 1986 and 1988 respectively. A Master of Science degree in Rehabilitation Counseling at University of North Florida in 2009 and a Doctorate in Physical Therapy at the University of South Florida in 2013. He has post-graduate certifications in Manual Lymph Drainage and Complete Decongestive Therapy for Lymphedema Management in 2001 through Klose Norton Consulting LLC. A head and neck cancer related lymphedema, combined lymphedema and wound care, and a cancer exercise specialist certifications. He is a Board Certified Clinical Specialist in Oncologic Physical Therapy by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties through the American Physical Therapy Association. Noli joined Mayo Clinic Jacksonville in June of 1995 as an out-patient Physical Therapist.
During his tenure at Mayo Clinic Florida, he spearheaded and collaboratde with colleagues in developing lymphedema and oncology rehabilitation programs. Noli had the opportunity to travel on behalf of the clinic on different occasions. He presented a poster entitled “Efficacy of Complex Decongestive Therapy in a Non-Breast Cancer Related Upper Extremity Lymphedema in a 60 Year Adult Male: A Case Study.” Presented at the National Lymphedema Network International Conference in 2014 at Washington DC. He traveled in Muscat, Oman with a medical team making a yearly palace home visit from 2017-2019 caring for a Mayo Clinic VIP Lymphedema patient. Noli is a member of the “PROJECT HOPE (Helping Our Partner Expand),” team of 100 nurses, doctors, and allied health from all across Mayo Clinic Enterprise who traveled to Abu Dhabi and tenured for 60 days at Sheik Shackhbout Medical Center, a Mayo Clinic Destination Center international partner last May to June, 2020. Noli has been invited on numerous speaking engagement such as Guest Lecturer at UNF Brook’s College of Health Doctor of Physical Therapy Program Special Topics in Physical Therapy: Lymphedema and Oncology; MCF Monthly Sport’s Medicine Lecture: Exercise Prescription in Breast Cancer Survivorship; and MCF Medical Breast Training Program: Post-Mastectomy Lymphedema presented to Internal and Family Medicine Residents.
Current research involvement, co-investigations, and data collections:
“Enhancing the Ability to Predict Lymphedema Development Following Axillary Surgery for Breast Cancer and Its Effects on Patient Survivorship.” Primary investigator: Sarah Mclaughlin, M.D., Mayo Clinic Florida
“Evaluation of Outcomes of Microvascular Treatment of Lymphedema.” Primary investigator: Antonio J. Forte. Mayo Clinic Florida

**Cassandra Dowtin**

PT
**North Carolina**
Cassie earned her Bachelor’s in Physical Therapy from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore in 1993. She sought her Complete Decongestive Physiotherapy training back in 1996, at the Academy of Lymphatic Studies, with Guenter Klose as her instructor, before there was national lymphedema certification. She established the first Greensboro lymphedema program at Cone Health. She also started a monthly free class to the community to teach about lymphedema/infection precautions, scar mobility and safe exercising after breast cancer. In 1998, she presented a case study at the NLN conference in San Francisco about using high stretch bandages with low stretch for patients who had paralysis. After the birth of her 2nd son in 2001, she left the workforce for two years, and re-entered as a traveling PT in NC and SC, and then settled into acute care physical therapy, helping out occasionally with lymphedema patients in the outpatient setting.
In 2015, she suffered a spinal stroke after a spinal cord detethering surgery. With a full year of OT/PT to relearn how to walk again, and a year of interviewing/job hunting, she was finally able to land a job back in the lymphedema and orthopedic field.
Since 2017, she re-started the lymphedema outpatient clinic in High Point, now under Atrium Wake Forest Baptist Health. She has implemented the After Breast Cancer (ABC) exercise and education class that is offered weekly in High Point. She also has assisted in starting a local lymphedema support group, that has unfortunately since been abandoned since the pandemic. She participates in Multi-disciplinary clinic, to share how PT can assist in the recovery and empowerment of a newly diagnosed breast cancer patient. She has been a guest lecturer/lab teacher for lymphedema for physical therapy doctoral programs and PTA programs, as well as for community education like the YMCA Live Strong program. She created a website for assisting her patients with bandaging or self-MLD to reinforce what is taught in the clinic. She is a strong advocate for patients to learn how to be their own therapist, to use the techniques or tools that she offers and know what works best for them and their lifestyle.

Nancy Dukelow

OTD, OTR/L, CLT

New York

Nancy graduated from the Sage Colleges with an BS/MS in Occupational Therapy and most recently from Chatham University with an OTD. She has worked in a variety of settings and has been with the University of Rochester Medical Center for several years. Currently, she works primarily with oncology patients, those with lymphedema and is invested in cognitive rehabilitation..

Amy Ewell

OT, CLT-LANA

Texas

Amy Ewell received her Master's in Occupational Therapy in 1995. In her early career she worked in a variety of settings including Rehab, Skilled Nursing, Home Health and CVA/ Brain Injury. She then moved into an Outpatient Setting and was introduced to Lymphedema. It was here that Amy found her passion for working with lymphatic disorders. She completed her CLT initially in 2000 through the Dr. Vodder School International and became LANA Certified in 2004. In 2017 she completed Klose Training Certification.

Amy currently works for Essity as a Medical Advisor in addition to her private practice. Learning the importance of compression garments and proper fitting makes a huge difference in a patient’s journey and how they progress and maintain. The ability to work with so many different therapists and clinicians strengthens her knowledge base as well as helps her to stay on top of new treatments and advances in the field. She enjoys empowering the patients to be successful with the knowledge and tools that are available. Amy also has an interest in Pediatric Lymphedema and has participated in Camp Watch Me for the past 3 years.

Vail Fassett

OT, CLT-LANA, LMT

Texas

Vail is a 1982 graduate of the University of Texas (Austin) and completed her Master of Occupational Therapy Degree at Texas Woman’s University in 1987. She immediately began her clinical practice in pediatrics, working with infants and small children at United Cerebral Palsy, ECI, MHMR, Easter Seals and Lakewood Pediatric Therapy in Dallas. She received extensive training in Myofascial Release (MFR) and Craniosacral Therapy (CST) via John F. Barnes and John E. Upledger respectively and has incorporated these manual techniques into her clinical practice since 1992. She completed the 8-week Pediatric NDT Certification in 1993, and Sensory Integration Treatment training in 1996. Vail obtained her TX Massage License in 1999, eventually incorporating infant/pediatric and oncology massage into her clinical practice as an OT, CLT, LMT.

In 2002, Vail completed her CLT training through the Dr. Vodder School International and achieved her LANA National Certification in 2004. Since 2002, her clinical practice has been divided between working as an OT/Lymphedema Clinical Specialist at Texas Health Resources Presbyterian Hospital/Dallas, and Private Practice. She received her STAR Oncology Certification during that time.

In 2020, Vail transitioned into a full-time Private Practice setting, specializing in treating oncology (including head and neck), secondary and congenital lymphedema, pre & post-op plastic surgery, as well as vascular/phlebolymphedema, providing personalized treatment, education, and instruction for self-care management.

Vail has been a guest lecturer at NLN Conferences, Lymphedema Seminars, North Texas Association of Neonatal Nurses (NTAAN), Texas Health Resources and the California Kaiser Group of OT/PT clinicians on the topics of Elastic Taping, Lymphatic Taping, Pediatric Lymphatic Pathologies and Head and Neck Cancer-Related Lymphatic Pathologies, Challenges and Treatment Strategies. For the past 3 summers, Vail has participated in and provided MLD/CDT and classroom education at Camp Watch Me, a camp for children with Lymphedema.

She received her Board Certification in Traditional Naturopathy in 2015. She is also a member of the American Vein and Lymphatic Society (AVLS) and the National Lymphedema Network (NLN) and the Lymphology Association of North America (LANA).

In her free time, Vail enjoys spending time with her family and friends, being outdoors, hiking and gardening, baking, painting, making jewelry and reading.

C Lynn Fast

MS, OTR/L, CLT-LANA, CLM

Kansas

Lynn graduated from Loma Linda University in 1990 with her BS in Occupational Therapy. She followed this up by graduating from Kansas University with her MS in Occupational Therapy. She has worked at the Kansas University Health Systems St Francis Campus since October 1, 1990. She began specializing in Lymphedema in 1998 after her mom was diagnosed with lymphedema. She took her certification class from Academy of Lymphatic Studies and became Lana certified in October of 2002. She was diagnosed with breast cancer herself in 2014. She treats a variety of lymphedema as the clinic she works at is the only lymphedema clinic in Topeka, Kansas. She enjoys working with the youth at her church as the Pathfinder director. She also enjoys spending time with her 4 adult children and their significant others as well as her spouse of 34 years and her 2 year old granddaughter. Her hobbies are quilting and camping.

Michealina Frackleton

PTA, CLT, LMT, CPT, CES

Massachusetts

Michealina “Micky” Frackleton is the sole proprietor of InterPathway Wellness. She is a Certified Lymphatic Therapist (CLT), Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), Physical Therapy Assistant (PTA), an ACE Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), as well as a Cancer Exercise Specialist (CES). She graduated with High Honors and her passion for lymphatic diseases has gained her recognition of Clinical Excellence. In 2009 she graduated from the Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy, in 2011 joined Klose Training at the prestigious Foldi Clinic in Germany for the “Advanced and Review “ Lymphatic course. Micky is proud to have served in the US Air Force. She is a member of the National Lymphedema Network holding the designation of NLN Expert Clinician, a proud member of the MA Team member of the LTA, American Massage Therapy Association and is the Coordinator of Guest Speakers and member of the MA Chapter of Lymphatic Education and Research Network.

Dalit Geller

OTR/L, CLT-LANA

Pennsylvannia

Dalit is an Occupational Therapist who earned her degree from Tel-Aviv University in 1999. She worked in various rehab and inpatient settings both in academic and community hospitals in the Philadelphia area.

She was certified CLT via the Klose training program and became LANA certified in 2015. She has beed working at the lymphedema clinic both at Capital Health in NJ where she co-founded the lymphedema program and at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia. She primarily focuses on secondary lymphedema and cancer rehab. Dalit is very passionate about working with the cancer population and is involved in various cancer causes both at Fox Chase and outside the hospital including the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network where she has been an active volunteer since 2007.

Tia C Gray

PTA, CLT, CWT

Pennsylvania

Tia Gray attended the University of Pittsburgh for undergraduate studies, and went on to receive her Associates Degree from Harcum College. Tia received her first Lymphedema Certification in 1996, (Leduc Method) and then completed more extensive training in 2006, (Vodder Method). Tia obtained her Wound Care Certification in 2021. She has worked for NovaCare for 25 years as a PTA and CLT. In 2018, Tia joined Good Shepard Penn Partners as a PTA, CLT specializing in Lymphedema. Outside of work, Tia enjoys running, and is a Certified Personal Trainer, USATAF Certified, and a race director and coordinator for many races in Philadelphia. Tia has completed 32 Marathons and 30 half Marathons. Running is a sport Tia picked up from her father.

Nancy Hardy

OTR/L, CLT-LANA

Massachusetts

Nancy graduated from Worcester State University in 1998 and became a licensed Occupational Therapist. In Nancy's early career, she worked as an inpatient OT in acute rehab, skilled nursing, and acute care facilities. Nancy has worked at Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro, MA since 2003. In 2014, Nancy became a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, attending Klose Training Lymphedema Certification. In 2015, she became certified by the Lymphology Association of North America. Nancy is proud to be a member of the Breast Health Program at Sturdy, working closely with the oncology team. She also manages the Lymphedema Surveillance Program. Nancy enjoys interdisciplinary collaboration with several different departments throughout Sturdy to provide her patients with exceptional comprehensive care. In 2019, Nancy was honored with Worcester State University's Alumni Award for Distinguished Professional Achievement. In her free time, Nancy enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and visiting New Hampshire.

Holi S. Heffron

OTR/L, CLT, WCC

Pennsylvania

Holi S Heffron is the Co-owner/Operator of the Hodi Lymphatic Center in Edwardsville, PA. At Hodi, Holi collaborates with her team to create a skilled, personable, comfortable environment at Northeastern Pennsylvania’s 1st Lymphatic Center of its kind. This lymphatic center provides the ultimate care and customized treatment options for patients suffering with lymphatic disorders such as Lymphedema and Lipedema treating adults and children with interventions provided by appropriately Certified Lymphedema Therapists. We here at Hodi achieve to provide the most optimal care for our patients incorporating patient goals and needs to develop the best care available with the most up to date research and treatment options. Prior to opening The Hodi Lymphatic Center Holi was providing lymphedema treatment for patients in the surrounding community counties in out-patient and then in home health settings developing specialized treatment plans to attain patient goals. Holi earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Misericordia University in Occupational Therapy with a minor in Psychology in 1995. She received her Lymphedema training and certification in Manual Lymph Drainage (Vodder Technique) and Complete Decongestive Therapy at Klose Norton Training & Consulting, LLC in 2002. Holi also attained her wound care education in Skin and Wound Management from the Wound Care Education Institute as well as receiving her WCC certification designation from the National Alliance of Wound Care in 2006. Holi most recently completed her Expert Clinician Designation with the National Lymphedema Network (NLN) in 2021. Holi resides in Plymouth Twp, PA with her husband Patrick, son Devland, daughter Shaylee, and her German Shepard, Fury. She enjoys spending time with her entire family and friends celebrating each other and each moment with her goal to live each day in gratitude and love and paying it forward for the many blessings in her life.

Carol Hughes

CLT, LMT, LME, Certified Acupressurist

Virginia

Carol Hughes is a Licensed Massage Therapist specializing in the treatment for lipedema, lymphedema and edema related etiologies. Carol first learned of the lymphatic system and its vital role in defending the body’s immune system in 2009 when her son was diagnosed with leukemia. He WON his battle, rang the bell, and continues to be healthy!! Carol, aka “Mom” became passionate about finding a therapeutic way of serving the oncology community, cancer survivors, and their caregivers; and began a lifelong journey of studying holistic therapies in 2010.

Carol is a proud retiree of the U.S. Navy (2006), with a strong nature and commitment to serve others. Her formal training in holistic therapies is lymphedema focused. She provides individually tailored, specialized treatments in manual lymph drainage, professional skincare and therapeutic treatment, exercise and self-care education, pneumatic compression treatment, and garment fitting if needed, for all clients. Carol’s private practice, Light Your World Skincare, is for clients seeking out-of-pocket, self-pay care outside of the complexed insurance-based health care system, who are living with primary or secondary lymphatic dysfunction, edematous conditions and pain from auto-immune disease, pregnancy, post-liposuction and cosmetic surgery, pre/post-surgical procedures of various origins, and lymphatic wellness treatments. In addition to her private practice, Carol has been a Contracted Massage Therapist for the World-Renowned Edgar Cayce A.R.E. Health Center and Spa in Virginia Beach, Virginia since 2013. She provides specialized lymphedema treatment for local clients and visitors from around the world in all stages of care.

**John Jordi**

BS, PTA, CLT-LANA, CI
**Tennessee**
John received training as a Physical Therapist Assistant from St. Catherine University, Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1993. In 2007, he earned a B.S. in Business Administration (summacum laude) from Bryan College, Dayton, Tennessee. John has been a therapist for 29years. His early background includes treatment of strokes, brain injuries, and wound care. For the past 23 years he has specialized in lymphedema treatment and research in both inpatient and outpatient settings. Most recently he served as Clinic Director of a physical therapy clinic specializing in lymphedema, venous disease, and custom garment fittings. Currently he is the Clinical Manager for Juzo USA, in addition to treating lymphedema and CVI at The Vein Institute in Chattanooga. Additionally, he is the owner of Compression Consultants as an expert fitter for upper and lower extremity compression and custom compression garments. John is also an adjunct instructor for the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga where he teaches the lymphedema portion of the doctorate program. Heis a senior instructor for Academy of Lymphatic Studies (ACOLS) and has been with them since 2008. John has been a speaker at Juzo Power Symposium, Klose training, NLN and AVLS. John has been published 4 times and provides the clinical expertise for the research publications with Vanderbilt University and Western Carolina University. These articles have appeared in Radiology, Journal of Lymphoedema, and Lymphatic Research and Biology. John also consults with other universities and businesses in continued research related to lymphedema. John also offer sno-charge seminars to therapists in his area on topics such as: difficult garmentf ittings, billing issues and wrapping techniques for therapists. While John managed the Siskin Hospital lymphedema program, the facility was noted in two journals: MD News, for its inpatient and outpatient program, and Rehab Management Journal, for providing one of only two inpatient programs forStage 3 lymphedema patients which he initiated. He also managed a free fitting clinic twice a month to any lymphedema patients who had need ,he initiated a patient endowment fund at Siskin Hospital to assist patients with the cost of compression garments and he organized a support group for those with lymphedema.

**Jennifer Klesat**

OT, CHT, CLT
**New Jersey**
Jennifer Klesat has been at Hunterdon Health since 2001. She graduated in1992 from the University of New Hampshire with a Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Therapy. She is a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT), since 2001, and certified in Manual Lymphatic Drainage and Complete Decongestive Therapy (MLD/CDT), via the Norton School in 2009. In 2021 she was awarded the designation of Expert Clinician by the NLN. She is also trained in adult neurodevelopmental treatment techniques.

Sharon Kyle

MPT, CLT

California

Sharon Kyle has almost 30 years of physical therapy experience and half of those years rehabilitating lymphedema patients. In 1992, she received her MPT from Hahnemann University in Philadelphia, PA. She currently works as a Clinical Specialist with Kaiser Permanente in San Diego. Sharon became certified in Complete Decongestive Therapy in 2007 with the Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy. She continued her education with certifications from the Dr. Vodder School and the Lymphoedema Training Academy where she learned Fluoroscopy-Guided MLD-Fill and Flush Method. While at Kaiser, Sharon has been recognized for providing compassionate care, inservicing staff and physicians on lymphedema management, creating a lymphedema algorithm for interdepartmental workflow, and starting a lymphedema surveillance program. When Sharon is not working you will see her in her running clothes or working with her Canine Companion-In-Training, Guthrie

Rachel Maier

PT, CLT-LANA

Maine

Rachel Maier has more than 25 years' experience as a physical therapist. Early in her career, she specialized in work related orthopedic injuries. Rachel worked on-site at many different companies and work environments. She holds specializations in Functional Capacity Evaluation, RTW Programs, and Worksite Evaluations. Later in her career, she became a Certified Lymphedema Therapist and LANA certified as well. Rachel enjoys working with patients to restore function due to issues related to lymphedema or cancer care. Lori very much enjoys working with patients who have lymphedema and finds the work very rewarding.

Lisa McCutcheon

OTR/L, CLT

Massachusetts

Lisa McCutcheon is a licensed occupational therapist and lymphedema therapist working in Western Massachusetts. Lisa graduated in 1984 from University of Madison Wisconsin as an occupational therapist and was certified in lymphedema from the Academy of Lymphatic Studies in 2002. Lisa has worked to continually improve her skills through yearly continuing education courses centered around expanding her skills in lymphedema. When not working, Lisa enjoys being outdoors, hiking, biking, and being with her family and friends.

Imelda Palisoc

PT, DPT, CLT-LANA, CWT

Texas

Dr. Imelda Palisoc is the co-founder of Paloma Wellness and Rehabilitation established in June 2013. She received her bachelor’s degree in Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation in the Philippines and, after moving to the U.S., she received her Doctor of Physical Therapy from AT Still University, Arizona School of Health Sciences. Dr. Imelda Palisoc has been practicing physical therapy for thirty-two years. Aside from her extensive training in treating patients with neuromusculoskeletal dysfunction and dry needling, she takes pride in being a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, LANA certified, and as a Certified Wound Therapist. Her clinic offers extensive treatment and care for all her lymphedema patients consisting of complete decongestive therapy and wound care. According to Dr. Palisoc, “being a lymphedema therapist requires a lot of time, work, and compassion; but none of this matter when you see your patient’s progress and the difference you make in their lives.”

Ana Pozzoli

PT, CLT

New Jersey

Ana Pozzoli is the owner,Physical Therapist, and Certified Lymphedema TherapistatOmnitherapyCenter. For well over thirty years, Ana has been working in physical therapy and treating lymphaticdisorders.Bornin Uruguay and educated in Enschede, Holland, she is bilingual andbi-cultural. Anaempowersherself andall staff members to value integrity, honesty, and a commitmenttoprovidingquality-evidence-based physical & lymphedema treatments.

Oscar Pozzoli

LPTA, Vodder-CLT

New Jersey

Oscar Gustavo Pozzoli is a physical therapist assistant with over thirty years of combined experience in orthopedics, wound care, pedorthist, and lymphedema disorders. He co-owns Omnitherapy Center, LLC, with his lovely wife, Ana Pozzoli, PT, CLT. A native of Montevideo, Uruguay, he migrated to the United States in 1974. He attended Fairleigh Dickinson University, studied Hotel Restaurant Management, and was employed by Marriott Corporation for ten years managing a gourmet restaurant. Encouraged by his wife, he studied in the Physical Therapy field, receiving his Physical Therapist Assistant degree in 1993. For over ten years, he worked at Christ Hospital in Jersey City; besides performing his duties as a PTA, he accomplished the roles of APTA Certified Clinical Instructor, Wound Care Specialist, and Certified Pedorthist. In 2001, he became the International Market Manager for foot.com, traveling globally and educating DMEs, podiatrists, and chiropodists in caring for diabetic feet with proper footwear, orthosis, and compression garments. In 2010, he continued his education and attended the Vodder School, receiving his Certification as a Lymphedema Therapist. In addition, he is studying and training to achieve the Functional Nutrition & Lifestyle Practitioner Certification with world-renowned Andrea Nakayama. With the greatest pleasure, he and his wife look forward to sharing information with colleagues in this field of lymphatic disorders and how to accomplish the road to a successful opening and operation of a private practice.

Jason Francis Roxas

BSN, RN, CLT

Philippines

Mr Jason Francis Roxas, RN, CLT-EC, is a multinationally trained lymphatic specialist. An oncology nurse by profession, he specialized in lymphatic disease treatment after graduating from KloseTraining in Austin, TX in 2013. He was also mentored in several European Centers of Excellence forlymphatic disease such as the Lympho-Opt Klinik in Germany and in Nij Smellinghe Hospital in the Netherlands. He was recently awarded the Expert Clinician designation by the American National Lymphedema Network. He has spoken in several international conferences and he is also the founderof the Philippine Lymphedema Network. He is currently affiliated with VRP Medical Center and St Luke’s Medical Center Global City.

**Belinda Rudicil**

PT, CLT
**North Carolina**
Belinda is a physical therapist, who graduated from Winston Salem State University in 2002 with a degree in Biology and Physical Therapy. She received her Lymphedema Certification from the Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy in 2015. Belinda’s additional training includes Lymphedema Treatment with Breast Cancer, Head and Neck Lymphedema, Wound Care with Lymphedema, and Genital Lymphedema. Her Lymphedema treatment experience spans through settings in thehospital, outpatient, skilled nursing and rehab over the last 21 years.

Tricia Saylor

PT, CLT- LANA

Illinois

Tricia Saylor is a PT, practicing for 24 years in hospital, SNF, wound care and outpatient settings. She has been a Vodder certified Lymphedema Therapist since 2002, working for IPMR and now OSF rehabilitation serving lipedema and lymphedema patients of multiple etiologies. Trcia received the STAR oncology certification and is currently studying to sit for the APTA board certification in oncology rehab in 2023.

Monica Stalter

OTR/L, CLT-LANA

Ohio

Monica Stalter is an Occupational Therapist for The Cleveland Clinic for the past 19 years. Monica has specialized in treating only lymphedema patients for the past 13 years. Mostly with lower extremity and wound care. She has been recognized by the NLN in 2019 for promoting lymphedema awareness and by The Cleveland Clinic in 2021 as a safety champion during the Covid pandemic. Monica is a therapist who gets it done.

Anna Stewart

MOT, OTR/L, CLT

Michigan

Anna Stewart is an occupational therapist currently practicing in Southeast Michigan. She has over twenty years experience as a manual therapist. She began her career as a massage therapist working primarily in medical offices. During this time, she was adjunt faculty in the massage program at Baker College. Anna completed her Master of Occupational Therapy in 2011 and has been working in a variety of settings experiencing the fullness of opportunities occupational therapy provides. Her career led her to work with underserved populations which has included rural communities in Kansas and urban areas of Detroit. In 2019, she completed her lymphedema certification course through Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy. Anna has brought her passion for providing care for individuals with lymphedema to now include those with wounds. She has additional training in palliative care and is thoughtful about providing individualistic treatment with a holistic approach.

Lisa Berman Sylvestri

MSPT, CLT-LANA

California

Lisa B. Sylvestri is a PT practicing since 2000 and a dual certified CLT since 2008. She is the owner of Oasis Physical Therapy and Wellness in San Ramon, California which is a lymphedema and oncology rehab multidisciplinary office.

“meet Lisa” video

Donald L. Thomas Jr.

PT, DPT, CLT-LANA, CWT

Pennsylvania

Donald Thomas has been a physical therapist for about 9 years, and a Lymphedema therapist for about 8 years. Throughout his professional career, Donald has been able to treat a wide variety of patients within his time of being a physical therapist who specializes in lymphedema. He was certified as a lymphedema therapist through the Norton School of Lymphatics in 2014, and recently received his official wound care certification from the SAWC in 2021. Currently, Donald works as a Lymphedema and Wound Care therapist with Good Shepherd Penn Partners, treating a multitude of simple and complex patients with lymphedema and potential lymphatic deficits. He also co-hosts a virtual Lymphedema support group, which occurs monthly, covering a plethora of topics relating to lymphedema, treatment, and education for patients and caregivers. Donald thoroughly enjoys what he does, and continues to learn more in the realm of lymphedema to be of service to those he is fortunate enough to treat for their lymphatic dysfunction.

Alison Troxell

OTR/L, CLT-LANA

Maine

Alison graduated from the University of New Hampshire in 1993 with a degree in Occupational Therapy. She has over 25 years’ experience as an Occupational Therapist working in a variety of settings. She completed her certification as a lymphedema therapist in 2010 through Klose Training and advanced certification through the Lymphology Association of North America (LANA) in 2011. Since 2010, she has worked full-time as an outpatient Lymphedema Therapist at Northern Light Mercy Lymphedema Care Center in Portland, Maine. She has advanced training in breast cancer rehabilitation, head and neck lymphedema, Kinisio-taping, and a variety of manual soft tissue techniques to manage fibrosis and scar tissue conditions.

Outside of work, Alison loves spending time with her son and daughter. She also enjoys the Maine outdoors and the activities of biking, skiing, hiking, and walking the beach or trails with her dog Beckham.

**Kelly Uanino**

OTR/L, CLT-LANA
**Florida**
Kelly Uanino is a registered and licensed occupational therapist who earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rutgers University in 2005 and a Master of Occupational Therapy degree from the University of St. Augustine in 2011. Prior to becoming an occupational therapist, Kelly worked as a social worker, special education teacher, and project manager at Duke University. Since becoming an occupational therapist, Kelly has worked in several settings including neurological outpatient, subacute inpatient, orthopedic outpatient, and more recently has specialized in oncology rehabilitation. She is both a certified lymphedema therapist and oncology rehab certified. Kelly is a co-owner and a treating therapist at BeStrong Therapy Services, an oncology rehab cash-based private practice. Kelly enjoys educating clients on how best to care for themselves, giving presentations on oncology rehab and lymphedema therapy, and advocating for the betterment of occupational therapy as well as teaching patients how to become health advocates for themselves and their loved ones. In her personal time, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, reading, and going with her family on hiking trips to the mountains.

Judith West

PT DPT, CLT

Massachusetts

Judi West, owner of Andover Lymphedema Therapy, has been treating Lymphedema for 14 years, with a special interest in cancer-related Lymphedema. Out of a passion for bringing treatment to those who need it, she opened Andover Lymphedema Therapy to uniquely provide in-home treatment of Lymphedema. Educated through the Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy, she follows Complete Decongestive Therapy (CDT) standards including the Vodder technique of Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD), multi-layer compression bandaging, exercise prescription, and patient education for Lymphedema management. At the conclusion of treatment, she measures for the most appropriate compression device, including custom sized garments, and coordinates obtaining whatever is needed for the patient. She is currently seeing patients in the Merrimack Valley north of Boston and southern New Hampshire area.

**Rebecca Williams**

OT, CLT
**Indiana**
Rebecca holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Occupational Therapy from Ohio State University in 1988. She received lymphedema certification from Klose Training in 2004 and the following certifications from Physiological Oncology Rehabilitation Institute: Breast Cancer Rehabilitation in 2020, Chemotoxicity and Cancer Exercise Management in 2021, and Head and Neck Cancer Rehabilitation in 2023.
She is a well-trained occupational therapist with 35 years of clinical experience in a variety of settings with expertise in traumatic brain injury, hand therapy, lymphedema, and oncology rehabilitation. Rebecca has been dedicated to providing direct patient clinical care for lymphedema and oncology rehabilitation programs at Indiana University Health Ball Memorial Hospital since 2004.

Randee Zerner

OTR/L, CHT, CLT

New York

Randee Zerner graduated from New York University in 1992 with a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy. She started her career at Beth Israel Medical Center 1992, where she focused on upper extremity rehabilitation- shoulder, elbow and hand dysfunction, soon becoming an advanced clinician. In 2004 Randee worked at Orthopedic associates of Manhasset, focusing on orthopedic and breast cancer rehabilitation. In 2012 she became a certified lymphedema therapist through the Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy. She then worked in a private practice focusing on lymphedema therapy and breast cancer rehabilitation, until 2014, when she began working at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, specialized in lymphedema therapy for oncology patients. In March 2023, she transitioned to private practice specializing in the treatment of lymphedema, and breast cancer rehabilitation. At RZ Occupational Therapy there is a focus on educating patients about lymphedema, lymphedema prevention and its treatment. Randee serves as Vice President of the Alatriste Foundation for Lymphedema Management.

NLN Expert Clinicians

Meet an NLN Expert Clinician