Nurse Triumphs in Bodybuilding After Rotator Cuff & Bicep Surgery!

Yolanda Lake, a nurse at UChicago Medicine Ingalls Memorial Hospital, defied the odds by winning a bodybuilding competition in June, a mere eight months after undergoing extensive surgery on her rotator cuff and bicep. Her journey from surgery to success is a testament to her resilience, determination, and unwavering spirit.

The Injury and Surgery

• Rotator Cuff Injury: Torn rotator cuff causing intense pain, limited shoulder movement, and weakened strength.
• Bicep Tendon Rupture: A ruptured bicep tendon leads to deformity, severe pain, and loss of arm strength.
• Rotator Cuff Repair: Using minimally invasive techniques, arthroscopic surgery reattached the torn tendon.
• Bicep Tendon Repair: Open surgery sutured the ruptured bicep tendon back to its original bone attachment.
• Rehabilitation: Involved immobilization and gradual physical therapy to restore shoulder and arm function.
• Physical Challenges: Pain, limited mobility, and dependency during recovery were significant hurdles.
• Emotional Impact: Struggled with doubt, loss of independence, and fear of not regaining fitness.
• Support System: Family, friends, and the medical team provided crucial support during recovery.
• Resilience: Overcame setbacks with determination, laying the foundation for future bodybuilding success.

Overcoming Challenges and Balancing Responsibilities

Yolanda Lake had countless reasons to reconsider entering her first bodybuilding competition. As a dedicated mother of three, she balances a full plate — coaching her daughter’s volleyball team, pursuing a master’s degree, and working full-time as a case manager nurse at Ingalls Memorial Hospital.

Her personal life alone was enough to keep her busy, but Lake also faced a daunting physical challenge. Eight months before the competition, she underwent complex surgery to repair severe tears in her bicep and rotator cuff — injuries caused by a range of strenuous activities. Her doctors warned her that a full recovery could take many months or even a year. For many, this prognosis would have been a reason to step back. However, for Lake, it was a call to push forward.

Undeterred by the obstacles, Lake decided to pursue her goal. While attending physical therapy sessions at UChicago Medicine Ingalls-Calumet City, she resolved to challenge herself. She registered for the USA Natural Chi-Town Showdown bodybuilding competition, which is set for June 2024.

“When I commit to something, I have to see it through,” said Lake, 42, from the South suburbs, showcasing her relentless drive and determination.

The Road to Recovery: A Team Effort

Lake’s journey to the competition stage began with a careful and collaborative recovery plan. In October 2023, Dr. Joseph Thometz, an orthopedic surgeon at UChicago Medicine, performed a 90-minute surgery to reattach Lake’s shoulder and bicep tendons. The surgery was successful, thanks to Lake’s overall good health, age, and the quality of her tissues, which allowed for a faster-than-average recovery.

However, Dr. Thometz emphasized that surgery was just the beginning. “Recovery is a multi-step process that requires a skilled physical therapist and a patient committed to getting better, and Yolanda was an exemplary patient,” he said. He praised the entire surgical team at Ingalls Memorial for their expertise and support in ensuring a smooth procedure.

The Challenge of Physical Therapy

The early weeks of physical therapy were grueling for Lake. Her therapist, Pamelanie “Lanie” Pacatang, PT, CLT, at UChicago Medicine Ingalls-Calumet City, remembers the initial sessions were filled with pain and frustration. Progress seemed painfully slow, and there were days when Lake feared she might never regain full arm movement.

One particularly tough moment stands out — a day when Lake, defeated by her slow progress, shed tears over her inability to move without discomfort. Her makeup and eyelashes were smeared. She worried she might never return to her former strength. Pacatang reassured her, explaining that her recovery was ahead of schedule and reminding her that healing takes time.

“She trusted her medical team to guide her correctly, which was crucial,” Pacatang noted. “With the right guidance and patience, she regained a full range of motion and built the strength needed to compete at a high level.”

Training for Victory: Pushing Through Barriers

Motivated by her progress, Lake remained disciplined, never missing her twice-weekly physical therapy sessions and diligently performing her at-home exercises. She continually asked Pacatang, “When can I start training with my coach again?” Her eagerness to get back into bodybuilding was clear.

Gradually and under careful supervision, Lake began ramping up her training routine. She started with light weights and low-impact exercises to avoid re-injury. Once she received the green light from her therapist and surgeon, she committed to an intense workout regimen that included up to eight weekly workouts, often at dawn.

Her training sessions were rigorous and diverse — from running up and down bleachers at Homewood-Flossmoor Community High School to performing lunges, side shuffles, and sprints across the turf. Her dedication didn’t waver, even in harsh weather conditions.

Beyond her workouts, Lake adhered to a strict nutrition plan, consuming six protein-packed meals a day, drinking a gallon of water, and ensuring she got seven to eight hours of sleep each night. Her family supported her disciplined lifestyle and rallied around her throughout her journey.

The Triumph on Stage: A Well-Earned Victory

Lake’s hard work and unwavering commitment culminated in her competing in two categories at the competition: “Bikini Novice,” where she placed second, and “Bikini Wellness,” where she claimed first place. Her victory was more than just a win; it symbolized her perseverance, determination, and the incredible support she received from her medical team and loved ones.

“The night she won, she texted me saying, ‘I couldn’t have done this without you by my side,’” recalled Pacatang. “It gave me goosebumps, and I felt incredibly proud to be part of her journey.”

Inspiring Others

• Impact on Patients: Her recovery story inspires patients to stay hopeful and committed during their own healing journeys.
• Influence on Colleagues: Fellow healthcare professionals are motivated by her resilience and dedication to overcoming personal challenges.
• Broader Community Reach: Her story resonates widely, encouraging others to pursue their passions despite physical setbacks.
• Messages of Hope: She emphasizes the power of perseverance, reminding others that recovery and success are achievable.
• Encouragement for Similar Challenges: She shares that determination and support can help anyone overcome obstacles and emerge stronger.

Reflecting on a Journey of Strength and Resilience

Lake reflects on her journey with immense pride. Just a year ago, she stood on the sidelines of the same competition, cheering on her friends and singing “The Star-Spangled Banner.” This year, she stood on stage as a competitor, proving to herself and everyone watching that with determination, anything is possible.

“I’m looking forward to doing it again next year and pushing myself to be even better,” Lake said, already setting her sights on the next challenge.

Her story is a powerful reminder that with perseverance, a strong support network, and an unwavering commitment to one’s goals, even the most daunting obstacles can be achievable.