BC Cancer Kelowna is improving outcomes for patients by implementing movement and exercise from the moment of diagnosis.
Dr. Lauren Capozzi is based in Kelowna and the first cancer physiatrist in the province, as well as one of nine in Canada. She launched the new referral-based program in September 2025 and has helped more than 100 patients.
Capozzi said she works closely with the oncology team as well as physical and occupational therapists, dieticians, and other health professionals on the function and rehabilitation.
“When we’re all on the same page, we can help to optimize the care plan for that patient,” Capozzi said. “It also makes better use of healthcare dollars.”
Greg Waring recently underwent surgery for a rare form of sarcoma in his hip. He attributes his active lifestyle to getting an early diagnosis after having pain while running. Waring is excited to work with a cancer physiatrist to get him back out doing what he loves.
“When you’re in the depths of just being really tired or really sore, I had some nerve removed from my leg and I couldn’t move my leg in certain directions, and you do feel like it’s never coming back,” Waring said that he’s not letting it stop him and even went skiing recently. Running, he added, isn’t something he has returned to yet, but he is confident he’ll be back in the races in time.
“I think I have the best job in the world,” Capozzi said. She loves helping people get back to living, running marathons, enjoying walks with family, and returning to their careers.