Lakeview Employee, Chelsey’s Incredible Journey of Strength and Survival
Chelsey Meuleners, a Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) at Lakeview Clinic who works alongside Dr. Carlson, is not only a valued member of the clinic team but also a remarkable example of resilience and courage in the face of breast cancer.
Chelsey grew up in Cologne, attended school in Waconia, and now lives just outside of Cologne with her husband Tim and their three children: Aiden (9), Raelynn (7), and Blair (3). It was shortly after the birth of her youngest daughter that Chelsey’s life took an unexpected turn.
At just 32 years old, while breastfeeding, Chelsey noticed what she believed was a blocked milk duct or the onset of mastitis. “I didn’t think it was anything more,” she recalls. “Who would think it was something more?” After two rounds of antibiotics, her symptoms worsened; her skin began to take on the appearance of an orange peel, prompting further medical evaluation. An ultrasound, mammogram, and biopsy revealed the devastating news; Chelsey had stage three breast cancer and tested BRCA positive.
Cancer had already touched Chelsey’s family. Two aunts, a grandmother, and two uncles had previously been diagnosed with breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer. Still, nothing could prepare her for the fear and uncertainty that followed her diagnosis.
“My biggest fear was what do I do now? How am I going to care for my kids? Who’s going to be there if things don’t work out?” Chelsey said.
Her treatment journey was long and grueling: 16 rounds of chemotherapy, a month of radiation, a double mastectomy, full hysterectomy, and reconstruction surgery. Most recently, a new spot on her hip led to a diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer, followed by another round of radiation.
Despite it all, Chelsey found strength in her community. “When you first get diagnosed, you think you are alone in this. I didn’t want to burden anyone with my diagnosis,” she shared. “But they always say you have a village, and boy did that happen. There was so much love and support from family, friends, neighbors, and my amazing coworkers. There’s no way my husband and I would have made it through without them.” She added that the level of care at Lakeview was amazing. “Dr. Chinnock, Dr. McPadden, and Dr. Stapleton were my doctors at Lakeview and both they and their nurses were supportive and helpful throughout this journey.” She also recognized that the care between Lakeview, Ridgeview, and MN Oncology was a great support system during her journey.
Today, Chelsey is happy to say she is in full remission, and she’s hopeful that it stays that way for a long time. Her advice to others is “don’t wait if you feel something is off, get it checked out right away!”
Her story is not only one of medical perseverance but of the unwavering strength of community support. Chelsey continues to serve patients at Lakeview Clinic with compassion, empathy, and the unique perspective of someone who knows firsthand the impact of quality care and heartfelt support.
You can learn more about Prevention and Early Detection of breast cancer in General Surgeon, Dawn Stapleton’s article; available HERE.
Lakeview Clinic offers state-of-the-art 3-D Digital Mammography. Mammography is one tool used for breast cancer screening. Lakeview Clinic also recommends monthly self-breast exams and regular visits to your doctor as additional tools for the early detection of breast cancer. Mammogram appointments can be scheduled online or by calling (952)442-4461.
You are often asked at a doctor’s office, “who is your primary care physician?” I hope that you can always answer this question. A primary care physician helps you navigate all of your healthcare needs ranging from a sprained ankle to the management of hypertension or diabetes. For children, this may be a pediatrician or family medicine provider. For adults it may be a family medicine or internal medicine provider.
A PCP is able to see you as a total person and not just one organ system. Their board certification requires a broad knowledge in all specialty areas. This becomes very important when you start juggling several medications or specialists that are involved in your care. Your PCP will manage your chronic conditions using evidence-based care to maximize your health. From newborns to the elderly, everyone should see a PCP.
Overall Wellness
Primary care focuses on your overall wellness. Our goal is to help educate and encourage a healthy lifestyle that includes a focus on exercise and nutrition. Weight can oftentimes be a frustration, and your PCP can assist with weight management. At your annual wellness visit not only will your PCP discuss healthy lifestyle behaviors but will also encourage general health screenings depending on your age including the importance of immunizations, cancer screenings and cardiovascular screenings. Your primary care physician can also help navigate the perimenopausal and menopausal years and may discuss hormone therapy as well as other modalities to help ease the symptoms.
Your Body as a Whole
Your primary care physician understands how each body system can affect the other. For instance, you may present with a cough that is not going away. Your PCP will try to decide if that cough is due to an infectious process, sinus or allergy issues, asthma, heartburn, medication side effects or something more worrisome, like breast or colon cancer. Another example may be presenting with fatigue. Again, your PCP will try to decide if there is evidence of a medical problem, such as a thyroid issue, diabetes, anemia, cardiovascular source or if there could be underlying depression, anxiety or stress that is causing fatigue. If the answer is unclear, a referral may be placed to assist with the diagnosis.
What PCPs Treat
I also hear “I didn’t know you can do that?” Your PCP can perform many procedures, such as full skin checks and biopsies, wart treatment, joint injections, orthopedic injury management, vasectomies and many in-office gynecologic procedures, such as IUDs. Many of our providers are trained in these areas, so if your PCP does not perform a certain procedure, they can refer you to someone in the clinic that does. We would like to serve all of your health care needs.
Your Partner in Healthcare
The most important aspect of a primary care physician is that that person gets to know you and how you want to address your body and your health. The PCP should be your partner in healthcare to advise and instruct as well as to listen and reflect on your health needs.
I hope you have an answer to the question of “who is your PCP?” If not, I challenged you to form a relationship with the primary care provider. Schedule your annual wellness visit for you and your family today.
Dr. Beulke joined Lakeview Clinic in April 2003. She provides the full spectrum of Family Medicine, including pediatric care, adolescent and adult medicine, geriatric care, and gynecology. Throughout her practice, she emphasizes a patient-centered approach, shared decision making, and establishing a partnership with each of her patients regarding their care.
Providing more clinical space plus a modernized look!
Details about patient parking and temporary entrances can be found HERE.
Lakeview Clinic is happy to announce that it will break ground this fall on a major expansion and renovation project at its Waconia location. Designed to enhance the patient experience and prepare for future growth, this project marks an exciting new chapter for the clinic and the communities it serves. THE CLINIC WILL REMAIN OPEN THROUGOUT THE PROJECT AND UPDATES ABOUT THE PROJECT WILL BE POSTED ON LAKEVIEW’S WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA CHANNELS.
We’re excited to share several key improvements designed to enhance both the patient experience and operational efficiency:
Updated Patient Parking Lot: A redesigned layout improves traffic flow and accessibility, with existing handicap-accessible spaces relocated closer to the entrance for greater patient convenience.
(Tentative) Modernized Front Façade: A refreshed, contemporary exterior reflects our commitment to innovation, professionalism, and high-quality patient care.
Northwest Build-Out: Previously unused space is being transformed into new clinical areas; helping us accommodate growing patient volume and support future provider expansion.
Remodeled Reception & Waiting Areas: Redesigned interiors will offer greater privacy, increased patient seating, and a more welcoming, efficient environment for everyone.
The expansion at Lakeview Clinic is about more than just adding space, it’s about continuing to meet the growing needs of our patients through a thoughtful, patient-centered environment that is both comfortable and efficient.
As part of this growth, Lakeview Clinic plans to welcome seven new physicians to its Internal Medicine, OB/GYN, and Family Medicine teams by the end of 2026. This expansion will further strengthen Lakeview’s ability to provide timely, high-quality care to patients across the region.
Dr. Prasun Mandal, DO joined Lakeview Clinic’s Family Medicine Team in Waconia in late August. We are also excited to announce that Dr. Spencer Ferrell, MD, will be joining our OB/GYN team later this fall, 2025!
Lakeview Clinic has long been a trusted healthcare provider in the Waconia area and is proud to grow alongside the thriving communities of the southwest metro.
About Lakeview Clinic Lakeview Clinic is an independent, physician-owned practice dedicated to delivering high-quality, compassionate healthcare for patients of all ages. With clinics in Waconia, Chaska, Norwood Young America, and Watertown, Lakeview offers a broad range of specialties including Family Medicine, General Surgery, Internal Medicine, OB/GYN, Pediatrics, Podiatry, and Optometry.
It’s finally summer in Minnesota! The grills are sizzling, the boats are cruising, and we’re all reaching for our swimsuits, sandals, tank tops, and sundresses. But before you head out to soak up the sun, let’s talk about your body’s largest and most exposed organ: your skin.
At Lakeview Clinic, our primary care providers do more than just manage your blood pressure and annual check-ups. We’re also your first line of defense when it comes to dermatologic care. Whether it’s a weird rash, a changing mole, or just some stubborn acne, your skin has a way of telling us what’s going on, and we’re here to listen.
Skin Self-Care Starts with You
Keep an eye out for changes in your skin. Is that mole new? Is that patch of skin flaking more than usual? The sooner you notice, the sooner we can help. Your primary care doctor is a great place to start the conversation. And no, you don’t need to wait for a dermatology referral to get it checked out.
Beyond awareness, treat your skin with the care it deserves. Tips for success include staying well hydrated, avoiding peak sun exposure, eating a balanced diet with a lot of color, and using mild soap and lotions
What Can Your Primary Doctor Handle? A Lot, Actually!
Lakeview’s primary care team is experienced and comfortable managing many common skin issues, including:
Acne (mild to moderate)
Eczema
Mild Psoriasis
Skin Infections
Bacterial
Fungal
Viral
Benign Skin Lesions
Warts
Skin Tags
Seborrheic Keratoses
Precancerous Lesions (Actinic Keratosis)
We’re your first stop for evaluation and treatment—and your guide when specialized care is needed.
When You Might Need a Dermatologist
Your primary care provider will coordinate specialty referrals when appropriate, ensuring you get the care you need.
Certain conditions may require advanced dermatologic care, such as:
Chronic or treatment-resistant skin conditions
Severe Psoriasis requiring biologic medications
Autoimmune Skin Disorders like lupus or dermatomyositis
Complex Skin Cancers requiring surgical removal or Mohs surgery
Cosmetic Procedures
What to Expect During Your Visit
When you come in for a skin concern, we’ll evaluate the area thoroughly. Depending on the issue, we might perform a skin scraping or biopsy to help diagnose the problem. From there, we’ll create a treatment plan and schedule any needed follow-ups to ensure you’re healing well and responding to treatment.
Bottom Line: Your skin deserves just as much attention as the rest of your body; especially in the sunny months! At Lakeview Clinic, our primary care team is ready to help you protect, heal, and love the skin you’re in. So go ahead, enjoy that sunshine responsibly and don’t forget the SPF! Feel free to let us know how we can help.
Dr Rogers joined Lakeview Clinic in 2016. He holds dual board certifications in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics which allows him to provide comprehensive care to all ages.
Ocular health, often overlooked in general health discussions, is a vital aspect of overall well-being. Our eyes are not only essential for vision but also serve as indicators of systemic health issues such as diabetes, hypertension, and neurological disorders. Maintaining good eye health ensures not only clarity of sight but also the early detection of potential health risks that might otherwise go unnoticed. Regular eye exams and appropriate care are foundational to preserving this vital sense.
A variety of factors can influence ocular health, including age, genetics, lifestyle choices, and environmental exposures. As people age, they become more susceptible to conditions like cataracts, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. Additionally, individuals with a family history of eye diseases are at greater risk and may require more frequent monitoring. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor nutrition, and excessive screen time can also contribute to eye strain and long-term damage, emphasizing the importance of preventive care.
One of the most prevalent threats to modern eye health is digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome. With increased reliance on digital devices for work, education, and entertainment, many individuals experience symptoms such as dry eyes, blurred vision, and headaches. Taking regular breaks, using blue light filters, and maintaining proper screen distance can alleviate some of these symptoms. Furthermore, ensuring that lighting conditions are adequate while using screens plays a crucial role in minimizing strain.
Nutrition plays a central role in maintaining healthy eyes. Nutrients such as vitamin A, C, E, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc have been shown to support retinal health and reduce the risk of chronic eye diseases. Leafy greens, carrots, fish, nuts, and citrus fruits are all excellent choices for eye-friendly diets. Hydration is also key, as dry eyes can be exacerbated by inadequate fluid intake. A balanced diet combined with hydration can significantly improve ocular resilience and functionality.
Eye injuries are another significant concern when it comes to ocular health. These injuries can result from accidents involving sharp objects, chemical exposure, or even sports-related impacts. Without prompt treatment, even minor injuries can lead to serious complications such as infection, scarring, or permanent vision loss. Wearing protective eyewear during risky activities—such as using power tools, handling chemicals, or playing contact sports—is a simple but effective way to prevent many common eye injuries. Immediate medical attention should always be sought if an eye injury occurs.
Preventive care through regular eye exams is essential for early detection and treatment of eye diseases. Many eye conditions, such as glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, develop slowly and painlessly, often going unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. Optometrists and ophthalmologists use various tools and tests to assess eye health and provide necessary interventions. Timely detection can preserve vision and prevent irreversible damage. A comprehensive eye exam with dilation is recommended annually to screen for various ocular diseases.
Ocular health is a fundamental aspect of general health and deserves greater attention in daily wellness routines. By understanding risk factors, making healthy lifestyle choices, and committing to regular eye check-ups, individuals can protect their vision and reduce the likelihood of serious complications. Prioritizing ocular health ultimately enhances quality of life and allows individuals to maintain independence and clarity throughout their lives.
Dr. Thomas Bryan is an optometrist practicing eye care at Lakeview Clinic in Waconia, Minnesota and enjoys all aspects of optometry, but especially medical cases and contact lens patients.
