News

Contact: Amy Blaser

For Immediate Release

(COLUMBUS, Neb.) – Columbus Community Hospital is proud to announce the release of its 2024-25
Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Annual Report, highlighting a year of profound dedication to patient
well-being, significant program growth and inspiring recovery stories.

In the 2024-25 fiscal year, the department proudly served 158 monitored cardiopulmonary patients,
empowering them on their journey to improved health. Through specialized exercises designed to target
the heart and lungs, we helped these individuals regain strength and vitality. Patients actively engaged
in a diverse range of programs, including cardiac rehabilitation, pulmonary rehabilitation, heart failure
wellness and medical wellness, all contributing to a significant and positive impact on their lives.

“Our goal is to help patients not just recover, but truly thrive,” said Dona Kudron, director of
Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation at Columbus Community Hospital. “We’re incredibly fortunate to have a
team of professionals who are not only highly skilled, but deeply compassionate and committed to every
patient’s journey.”

The department's success is further outlined by the personal journeys of its patients. Gerald “Gerry”
Bobert, a cardiac rehab patient, shared his experience, “At cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, I know the
staff and the other patients. It's a welcoming, comfortable environment where I can focus on getting
better.” Bobert, who started cardiac rehab in December 2024, praised the staff's attentiveness and the
program's structure, which helped him regain stamina and adopt heart-healthy choices. He even plans
to volunteer at the hospital, a testament to the positive impact of his care.

Similarly, Pat Hoffman, a pulmonary rehab patient, found a “safe place to work out” at CCH after facing
significant breathing challenges due to stroke. Starting in May 2024, Hoffman worked closely with
respiratory therapists, learning how to work her way through breathing challenges. “If you could have
seen me when I first went in and now, there's a big difference,” Hoffman said, highlighting her
significant progress and the supportive environment, including the unexpected connections she made
with staff members beyond her direct care team.

“Each person who walks through our doors receives an individualized plan tailored to their unique
needs—whether they’re recovering from a cardiac event, managing a lung disease, or working to
improve their overall wellness. The programs we offer are designed to strengthen both body and spirit,
helping patients rebuild confidence as they regain strength and endurance. It’s an honor to be part of
that transformation,” said Kudron.

The 2024-25 Annual Report reinforces Columbus Community Hospital's commitment to empowering
patients to live well despite chronic cardiac or pulmonary disease. Through its expert staff, personalized
care plans and supportive community environment, CCH strives to promote health and recovery for the
Columbus community and surrounding areas.

Read about the full Columbus Community Hospital Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Annual Report