Hanger Clinic

We are proud to celebrate International Women's Day and share Natalie Rovirosa’s perspective on this year’s theme ! 🫶

23 years ago today, Natalie lost her leg in a car accident, but she never let that stop her from living life to the fullest. She does a workout every year on the anniversary of her accident to honor her second chance at life and to show her daughters that they can do anything they set their minds to.

As a Paralympian, Natalie dreams of a day when there will be true, honest inclusion in competitive sports for all women with disabilities and believes that inclusion is about seeing beyond the differences and focusing on the abilities. She states, “If we allow ourselves to see disability without any limits that’s when we can really see the inclusion for us all.”

Join us in helping Natalie celebrate her and share what this year’s theme means to you. 💜

After losing nearly 200 pounds in his late 40s, Michael Myers felt motivated and excited about the progress in his weight loss journey. Then, his right leg was amputated below the knee due to , and Michael started to gain back the weight he had lost.

When Gainesville, GA prosthetist Ryan Sharry met Michael, she was determined to help him walk again as soon as possible. What began as a unique custom exoskeletal prosthesis that could assist Michael in meeting his initial goals, has since evolved into two additional prostheses that help support Michael’s increased activity level and improved mobility.

Losing over 100 pounds and successfully managing his diabetes, the local team says Michael is a beacon of positivity and always makes a point to meet with other patients and offer hope that they, too, can reach their goals.

We couldn’t be more proud of your progress, Michael. Here’s to many more awesome achievements in your future – keep going! 👏

Today is – a time to help raise awareness for the 300 million people worldwide living with a rare disease.

Wheat Ridge, CO patient Rose Merrill advocates for this cause every day. Several years ago, the 24-year-old was diagnosed with , a rare autoimmune neurological disorder that can present in many ways – most commonly through muscle stiffness and painful spasms that often get progressively worse over time.

Clinician Dylan Reents (pictured with Rose and her boyfriend, Blayze on left) and resident Ben Horrell have helped Rose remain mobile, fitting her with custom bilateral ankle foot orthotic devices that help increase her stability when walking.

In addition to teaching others about her condition, Rose loves fashion, sewing, adaptive cycling, and enjoying the outdoors. Her motto is “Fall down seven times, stand up eight!”

We’re proud of your tenacity, Rose, and we thank you for your meaningful advocacy. ❤

Born with below-elbow limb difference, 52-year-old Tanya Shirel has spent a lifetime wearing and using different upper limb prostheses to maintain her active lifestyle. 🚣‍♀️

After hearing great things about the in Lansing, MI, Tanya decided to become a patient. Immediately, she felt welcomed by team clinic business manager Liz Green and impressed with the expertise of her prosthetist Ryan Sheridan.

Tanya was fit with a custom-designed prosthesis with a lamination – a perfect reflection of the incredible activities she excels at, including kayaking, mountain biking, riding ATVs, and pickleball. She shared, “I will be a forever patient simply because they are great people who really know what they're doing.”

Thanks for trusting us with your care, Tanya. We can’t wait to see what SUPER activity you tackle next! 🦸‍♀️

“After my injuries, I wasn't sure I would ever become a pilot… Hanger Clinic not only gave me my life back, but also a chance for my dreams.”

Meet aspiring airline captain Dylan Miller, a 22-year-old college student at Eastern Mennonite University. Having lost all cartilage in his left ankle due to septic arthritis at 17 and enduring a Lisfranc fracture on the same foot the next year, Dylan faced multiple surgeries and challenging physical therapy. In August 2020, he was finally able to walk pain-free for the first time in 18 months after being fit with the device by orthotist Ryan Blanck in Gig Harbor, WA.

Just one week after receiving his device, Dylan was able to take to the skies! 🛫 Since then, he’s become a certified flight instructor and will soon graduate with a degree in Leadership & Organizational Management with a concentration in aviation. He hopes to one day establish a scholarship for aviation students who use prosthetics/orthotic devices.

Always working to inspire others, Dylan shared: “Just keep trying. You are going to have successes and failures in life, and you can't control how many you'll have. What you can control is whether or not you're going to try.” Keep on soaring, Dylan! 🛩

Colton’s parents noticed at his two-month check-up appointment that he was favoring one side of his head. He was diagnosed with – a condition where the baby’s neck muscles contract, causing the head to twist to one side. When physical therapy didn’t seem to improve things, Colton's family turned to the Akron, OH team for help. There, clinician Laura Carter fit him with custom a helmet that will help keep his head developing correctly as he’s treated.

Now five months old, Colton loves tummy time, his big sister Cali, and his stuffed animal sea horse. Keep on rocking that adorable helmet, Colton! We’re excited to see your progress. 🧡

This , we remember and honor those that we have lost, we stand with the ones still facing it, and celebrate the journeys of those who have survived the disease – including the incredible Josh Sundquist, who receives care at .

Diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma at age nine, Josh spent a year in chemotherapy before the disease ultimately resulted in the amputation of his left leg. Josh has faced every adversity with a smile, growing up to become a comedian, Paralympian, bestselling author, TV series writer and producer, and motivational speaker.

Survivor stories like Josh’s are a powerful reminder that resilience and positivity can help in even the most challenging times. 🎗️

These two babies are all geared up and ready to root for their team on Sunday! 🏈 Cristopher from Sacramento, CA is repping the San Francisco 49ers, while Lilly from Kansas City, MO is proudly donning The Kansas City Chiefs gear. We’re excited to watch these two teams go head-to-head. Special thanks to our awesome clinicians who provide excellent care to our cranial patients!👏

34-year-old Alvaro Casteneda-Farias was injured in a farming accident 12 years ago, losing his right leg below the knee. Not long after, Alvaro underwent an amputation at the hip due to an infection during his recovery.

For many years, Alvaro utilized crutches to get around – that is, until he met Wenatchee, WA prosthetist Ross Workman at a truck stop. The two struck up a conversation, and it was that chance encounter that ultimately led Alvaro to seek care to restore his mobility.

Ross quickly got to work making Alvaro a new prosthesis that has been a game changer for him! Not only is Alvaro walking, but he is happily working again too. This is such amazing progress, Alvaro! 👏 Keep forging ahead.

Chris Chambers’ life took a turn 25 years ago after he was struck by a car while riding his motorcycle. While multiple surgeries and treatments saved his right leg, he was never able to walk without persistent pain. He struggled for years before connecting with the Johnston, IA team in 2023.

There, orthotist Clayton Godfrey and technician Lonee McIntire crafted a custom ankle foot orthosis (AFO) – meticulously designed to meet Chris’s specific needs and help him walk more easily. In just two weeks with his new AFO, Chris achieved a feat he could only dream of before – he walked three miles, defying expectations and showcasing remarkable progress. 👏

Today, Chris is enthusiastic about his future and the newfound independence that he had dreamed of for years. His reduced pain means he can actively participate in more of the activities that he enjoys, including fishing! 🎣 We're honored to be part of your journey to enhanced mobility, Chris. Walk on!

We had a fun night at the Grand Ole Opry as we celebrated our Hanger Impact Award recipients and enjoyed a special appearance by Josh Sundquist. Josh, who receives care at , shared his story as a cancer survivor, Paralympic ski racer, author, and advocate.

Thank you to everyone who made 2024 a resounding success! It was an invigorating week full of education, innovation, connection, and a unified passion for taking the profession to the . 🔥

Do you know about ’s AMPOWER program? It’s a peer-to-peer support network for people with limb loss and limb difference to connect through mentorship, education, and support.

Last night, we were honored to celebrate AMPOWER Volunteer of the Year, Kevin Leonard!✨After losing both legs in a work-related accident in his 20s, Kevin began supporting other amputees going through similar experiences. Over the years, his unwavering commitment, strong sense of empathy, and ability to connect with others has allowed him to become a beacon of hope and support in the community. Thank you, Kevin – you are truly making a difference in the lives of others! 🧡

To learn more about AMPOWER and how to get involved, visit: hangerclinic.com/patients/emotional-support

📸: Michael Oros (President, Hanger Clinic) with Kevin Leonard and his family

We had a great night at the Dinner with Business Development Manager Robert Rodriguez, where he shared his story of overcoming personal setbacks to become a motivational speaker, gifted athlete, and mentor to many in the limb loss and limb difference community.

The night ended with a celebration of our colleagues and teams across the country! 🎉

Thank you Marcy Frederico and Zack Anglin for sharing your stories as part of the Opening Ceremony last night! What a powerful reminder of what it means to be fueled by courage, hope, and determination to go after your goals.

Stay tuned - we'll be sharing Marcy and Zack's full stories in the coming weeks! 🥰

A full day of learning, growing, and collaboration at Day 2 of . We can't wait for the Opening Ceremony tonight! ✨

2024 has begun! 🤩 We're excited to give you an inside look at our annual employee education conference, held this year at the Ga***rd Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, TN!

Starting today, we welcome over 1,300 Hanger employees, exhibitors, and industry experts from across the country as we gather for continued education, training, and collaboration.

Stay tuned for more updates as we take this week to the ! ✨

Sheryl Olshan has – an auto-immune disorder that makes her more prone to suffering blood clots. In 2018, she lost her right leg below the knee due to a clot that formed in her foot cutting off circulation.

After her amputation, Sheryl became very active in peer support groups for those with limb loss/limb differences. She even attended our event in 2019, an experience that Sheryl says changed her life for the better! 🧡

Originally a patient at the Santa Rosa, CA location, Sheryl began working with the Ocala, FL team when she moved there with her husband in 2021. Two years later, she fell and broke her femur, resulting in surgery and the permanent lateral rotation of her knee. Sheryl’s Ocala team – including prosthetist Chelsea Dornfeld and technician Rob Brock – took extra care to fit her with a new prosthetic leg so that she could continue her rehabilitation.

At 73 years young, Sheryl has countless goals for her future, including walking two miles at a time and becoming less reliant on her cane. She enjoys bocce ball, swimming, shuffleboard, and spending time with her dog. Shine on, Sheryl – we’re so happy to see your progress and excited to see where your adventures will take you next! ✨

Meet 7-year-old Elysia, a recent participant of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s Inspire Program – an experience for guests who have been inspired by the stories of the aquarium’s work and rescued animals like Winter the Dolphin!

Diagnosed with mild spastic hemiplegia at age four, Elysia has been undergoing physical therapy at Akron Children's Hospital since 2020. She has used traditional orthotic devices over the years, but wanted to explore other options, and was put in touch with orthotist Nick Sellas at the in Akron, OH in 2022.

With Nick’s expertise and care, Elysia has shown significant improvement in her mobility after being fit with the device – a functional electrical stimulation (FES) system that has allowed her to be able to participate in physical activities like cheer, soccer, and theater! Her mom says, “Nick went above and beyond, and both he and Ms. Hillary (Elysia’s PT) continue to work together today to help Elysia. We are very fortunate to have this community of support through Akron Children's and Hanger Clinic.”

You’re doing FINtastic, Elysia – keep going! We know Winter would be very proud. 🧡🐬

Today, we celebrate the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who reminded us that: “Courage is an inner resolution to go forward despite obstacles.”

As a profession that restores mobility, we are passionate about empowering patients to live their lives to the fullest. We believe that mobility is not only a physical right, but also a social and emotional one of dignity and justice.

As we reflect on Dr. King’s vision, may we each look for ways to find our own courage to rise above obstacles and make a positive difference in our communities and in the lives of those around us.

Angelica Orpineda was crossing the street on Christmas Eve 2022 when she was struck by a vehicle. The traumatic accident resulted in the amputation of her left leg above the knee.

Exactly one year later, the 22-year-old triumphantly completed her goal of hiking with her family again, with community care coordinator, Chris LoDolce, by her side! 👏

Determined from the start – and with the unwavering support of her loved ones – Angelica has worked closely with her prosthetist Matthew Uellendahl and the Hanger Clinic Phoenix, AZ team to recover and restore her mobility. The staff compliments her incredible outlook as one of the keys to her success.

As she continues in her journey, Angelica looks forward to helping others by becoming a peer mentor. She’s also just a few semesters away from completing her degree in behavioral science.

We’re overjoyed at your progress, Angelica, and we hope you’ll enjoy many more hikes in 2024! 🥾

It started with a goal of leaving his nursing home and returning to independent living… but now, Curtis is dreaming of skydiving! 🛩

The 64-year-old had his left leg amputated below the knee last August after several falls led to an infection in his foot. Prior to this, Curtis spent 18 months in the hospital recovering from multiple lung infections and struggled to get his mobility back. His Williamsport, PA prosthetist Stephen Truesdale says that despite every setback Curtis has faced, he has persevered – proving the importance of not giving up and advocating for yourself during challenging times.

Today, Curtis is doing incredibly well and continues to strive forward to reach new heights. His motto is “There’s no quit in me!” and we couldn’t agree more. We’re proud of your progress and excited for what’s next, Curtis – keep going after your dreams! 👏

Ahead of this weekend’s big game, we know one super fan who’s ready to root for the Miami Dolphins! 🏈🐬 Meet Chesney, a 13-month-old who graduated with flying colors from our cranial remolding therapy just a few months ago!

Seeing Chesney now, you’d never guess he underwent major surgery at only three months old. He was diagnosed early-on with congenital sagittal – a condition that occurs when certain bones in a child’s skull fuse prematurely. Vanderbilt University Medical Center neurosurgeon Dr. Christopher Bonfield performed cranial surgery, working alongside clinician Jason Ramsey on our Nashville team to complete Chesney’s full treatment program – which included custom cranial helmet therapy to help reshape Chesney’s skull and provide protection after surgery.

Today, Chesney is thriving – besides being an early fan of the Dolphins, he loves dancing, bath time, and laughing with his sister.

Cheers to you, Chesney! 👏

To learn more about craniosynostosis, visit: hangerclinic.com/library/craniosynostosis/.

Colby McDivitt’s left foot was amputated after a lawn mower accident when she was just three years old. Since then, the 20-year-old college student has persevered in all she does, excelling in school and softball, the sport she loves most! 🥎

Colby’s Oak Park, IL team – including John Angelico, Jesse Mejorada, Claire Kilpatrick, and Miguel Garcia – have worked with her over the years to help accommodate her changing needs on and off the field. The team even fabricated a 3D high heel foot for her to wear to her high school senior prom!

Today, Colby remains incredibly active and independent as she finishes her last year of community college at Prairie State College. Her ultimate goal is to transfer to a four-year college and continue playing softball, though she’d also like to become a fiction writer someday.

One thing is for certain – the possibilities are endless! Go, Colby, go! 👏

As the year comes to an end, we want to express our gratitude to all our patients who have trusted us with their care. You are the reason we do what we do and we are honored to be a part of your journey.

We wish you a wonderful holiday weekend and new year filled with hope and possibilities! ✨

Sixty-one-year-old Teresa Nichols received a life-changing gift this holiday: her very first prosthetic leg! 🦿

Following continued complications from knee replacement surgery in 2021, Teresa’s left leg was amputated earlier this year to give her a chance at a better quality of life. With help from her Tulsa, OK team – including prosthetist Nolan Wilson and clinical care coordinator Emily Matloff – as well as our friends at the Steps Of Faith Foundation, Teresa took her first steps in her prosthesis on Dec. 22, regaining her mobility and independence just in time for Christmas. She can now exercise, do household chores again, and be active with her family!

Teresa’s team compliments her wonderful outlook on her life, especially the way she sets an amazing example for her granddaughters – reminding them that “no matter what life throws at you, you’ve got to persevere and keep living!” Bravo, Teresa! We’re excited to see your big step forward. 🧡

Ten-month-old Giovanni recently rocked his superhero cranial remolding helmet at the New York Comic Con alongside his parents, where they met real-life Captain America Chris-Evans! 👊🎉

Diagnosed earlier this year with (flattening of the back of the head), Giovanni has made significant improvement in his head shape with help from his super orthotists, Fort Meyers, FL team members Grace Casalino and Peter DiPaolo.

Keep going, Giovanni – Captain Cranio! 🧡

Sending warm wishes to you and your loved ones this holiday season, from our Hanger family to yours. May your days be merry and bright! ✨

Meet the unstoppable Brian Washburn from Albany, NY!🦿When vascular challenges resulted in amputations to both of his legs below the knee within one year, this 65-year-old retiree worked hard to get back on his feet. He impressed his clinician Morgan Bush and the team by walking unassisted just one month after being fit with his second leg in September. Not long after that, Brian walked an entire 5K with his family to help raise money for local scholarships.

Brian also finds joy in fishing, camping, furniture refurbishing, and being a grandpa. 🎣🛠️ Next, he plans to volunteer on security detail at the South High Marathon Dance – a role he’s held for 30 years! The event is expected to raise around $600K for local charities and community members with medical conditions.

Today, we’re celebrating Brian's tenacity and the awesome team who helped him regain his momentum! Kudos to you, Brian!

At just four years old, Hunter survived a dog attack – but his injuries were so severe that his left leg had to be amputated below the knee. The long road to recovery was no match for his perseverance, and soon he was exploring adaptive sports like wheelchair basketball, swimming, and more. 🏀

After facing additional surgeries and recovery over the last year, Hunter was recently fit with a brand-new prosthetic leg that’s helping him gear up for a packed year of athletic events ahead! The 7th-grader credits prosthetist Brittany Jones and the rest of his Cedar Park, TX team for their kindness and for always taking their time when helping him. 🧡

Hunter wants people reading his story to know: “With the support of others and belief in yourself, you get through challenges and hard times.” Having already grown into a resilient and confident young man, Hunter has more big dreams ahead, including playing wheelchair basketball in college someday.

Kudos to you, Hunter…We’ll be cheering you on all the way! 👏

Flora Bunch is showing all of us the joy of adding a little flair to your life! ✨

The 70-year-old Chicago native has survived three strokes in her lifetime – but in 2017, one of them resulted in an amputation to her right leg below the knee. Since then, she’s focused on maintaining her mobility with the help of the Lincoln Park team.

Affectionately dubbed the "Button Lady," Flora has a hobby of creating custom buttons for friends and family. A cherished member of her community and church, she enjoys being active with her 10 grandkids and three great grandkids. Her clinician Ryan Schuetzle and technician Tony Kapechuck work hard to make sure Flora’s prosthesis is not only a perfect fit, but also complete with plenty of creativity and color.

Cheers to Flora's artistic spirit and the smile she shares with everyone she meets. 🌺🧡