Jill Binkley never imagined that her breast cancer diagnosis would lead her to create a sanctuary for thousands of other women. More than two decades ago, after undergoing surgery, she found herself struggling with pain and immobility in her arm. Each time she asked her doctors for guidance, she was met with silence. It was as if the medical world had nothing to offer her beyond treatment of the disease itself. Frustrated but determined, Jill decided to take control of her own recovery. What began as a personal journey soon turned into something much bigger—TurningPoint Breast Cancer Rehabilitation.
Located in Sandy Springs, TurningPoint has since become a godsend for breast cancer survivors. Lois Rusco, the executive director, has witnessed firsthand the difference the organization makes. She recently told SandySprings.com a staggering fact: although 80% of breast cancer patients need physical therapy, only 20% are referred by their doctors. The gap is immense, but TurningPoint is working tirelessly to close it.
For patients, the challenges don’t end when the cancer is gone. Imagine coming home from surgery expecting to rebuild your life, only to realize you can’t raise your arm to brush your hair or pick up your child. This is the reality for many, but thanks to TurningPoint, they don’t have to face it alone.
The nonprofit offers a comprehensive range of services, from physical therapy and oncology-specific exercise programs to nutritional guidance and counseling. The results are astounding—within ten weeks, patients report an average pain reduction of 186%.
TurningPoint’s impact extends beyond Sandy Springs. In 2023, a new satellite facility opened in downtown Atlanta, focusing on serving historically underserved communities. Partnering with major hospitals like Grady and Emory Winship Cancer Institute, TurningPoint ensures that financial barriers don’t stand in the way of recovery. The organization never turns anyone away, and for those in need, donations cover the cost of treatment. At the Atlanta clinic alone, 58% of patients receive full financial assistance.
Rusco recalls one patient who was on the verge of making an impossible decision: “I was trying to decide between putting food on the table or getting treatment for my recovery from surgery.” Thanks to TurningPoint, she didn’t have to choose.
In 2024 alone, TurningPoint provided nearly 3,000 patients with over 5,900 appointments. While many patients visit in person, the nonprofit also offers virtual services, allowing individuals from all over to access care. The vast majority of appointments—88%—are dedicated to physical therapy and lymphedema treatment, helping patients regain their strength and mobility.
Rusco describes the transformation she witnesses every day. Women arrive feeling defeated, fearful of what the future holds. They sit in the waiting room with tears in their eyes, wondering how they will ever feel normal again. But after weeks of therapy, they walk out standing tall, confident, and grateful for a safe space where they are understood, supported, and empowered. And it’s not just the patients who benefit—TurningPoint extends support to their families, spouses, children, and caregivers, recognizing that cancer affects everyone in its wake.
With demand steadily increasing, TurningPoint is looking to the future. Their Sandy Springs facility, currently at 3,200 square feet, is already outgrowing its space. They are currently searching for a larger space in the community where they can put plans in motion, with the goal of adding two more treatment rooms and a larger gym. Meanwhile, the Atlanta clinic, currently operating three days a week, may soon extend its hours.
Funding such ambitious growth requires the community’s help. Every year, TurningPoint hosts multiple fundraising events to sustain its programs. The Pink Affair is the largest, a lively gala featuring dinner, dancing, an open bar, and both live and silent auctions. Other key events include the Strength to Survive Golf Event in June at Fairways of Canton, the TurningPoint Pickleball Tournament in September at ITA Atlanta, and the Toys for Tots TurningPoint Golf Tournament in December at the Echelon Golf Club in Alpharetta.
With a dedicated team of 300 volunteers, TurningPoint continues to change lives, but there is always a need for more hands and hearts. For those looking to make a difference, whether through volunteering or donating, supporting TurningPoint means giving someone the chance to reclaim their life.
For more information about TurningPoint and ways to contribute, visit their website or contact their Sandy Springs or Atlanta locations.
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