Published April 18. 2026 09:01AM
Area high school students learned about surgical tools, how to perform CPR — and even oversaw the dissection of a cadaver knee.
The opportunity for real-life medical experiences came thanks to St. Luke’s Sports Medicine’s “Hands On Immersive Healthcare Learning Program.”
Medical professionals recently visited the Tamaqua Area High School, where they spoke to students from Tamaqua, Panther Valley and Weatherly high schools.
Kristin Klingamen, head of Tamaqua’s science department, said it was the second year the program was held at the school.
The program is supported by St. Luke’s staff including Dr. Michael Doran, orthopedic surgeon; Nicholas Lumi, PA-C; Dr. Brendan Kash, and district athletic trainers Liz Burkhardt and Trevor Gecik, Tamaqua; Dylan Bradley, Panther Valley; and Marc Gallagher, Marian Catholic.
Kaitlin Hibbler, region coordinator, was also on hand.
Nicolas Lumi, a physician assistant with St. Luke’s University Health Network, demonstrates how to use an arthroscope to area high school students from Tamaqua, Weatherly and Panther Valley high schools. Looking on are Cheyenne Burger, middle, and Emma Boger, right, of Panther Valley. JILL WHALEN/TIMES NEWS
Tamaqua Area High School students Ava Murray, left, and Destiny Steinmetz learned how to perform CPR, thanks to the “Hands On Immersive Healthcare Learning Program” presented at Tamaqua Area High School by St. Luke’s Sports Medicine. JILL WHALEN/TIMES NEWS
Dr. Brendan Kash of St. Luke’s Sports Medicine speaks to students at Tamaqua Area High School. JILL WHALEN/TIMES NEWS