In Greeley, healing is more than a clinical process—it’s a community experience, unfolding on winding trails, under blue skies, and with the steady support of neighbors, nature, and trusted medical care. For patients at Orthopaedic & Spine Center of the Rockies (OCR), that journey to recovery often leads outdoors—onto the very paths that define Greeley’s active, healthy lifestyle.
From Sheep Draw Trail to the banks of the Poudre River, residents recovering from joint surgeries are rediscovering movement, confidence, and joy, thanks to the partnership between OCR’s exceptional orthopedic care and the city’s scenic trail system.
For Mary Pancheri, this journey began after undergoing two major procedures: a right hip replacement in March 2025, followed by a right knee replacement in May, both performed by Dr. Riley Hale.
“I began my recovery with my personal treadmill until it was safe for me to walk outside,” she shares. “I have used the Sheep Draw Trail every Sunday for rehab. Being outside is much more encouraging—being able to get fresh air and enjoy the beautiful scenery. It is good physically, but more so mentally! Surgery has a mental impact, as well as a physical one.”
Mary’s favorite trails—the Sheep Draw and Poudre—offered gentle inclines, smooth surfaces, and, most importantly, the motivation to keep going.
“I like these two trails because they are not difficult trails, mostly flat, with some gradual inclines. I enjoy walking them. In addition to recovery, walking the trails helped me lose weight, which was critical for prepping for my surgeries!”
The ability to use Greeley’s trails post-surgery wasn’t just a bonus—it was made possible by OCR’s thoughtful care.
“If it wasn’t for their care and support, I would not be walking the Greeley trails. After recovery, you appreciate and are grateful to Dr. Hale’s team, for making it enjoyable again. It’s no longer a chore, but a pleasure.”
Mary built a close relationship with the OCR staff, especially with Lisa Padgett, who helped her navigate recovery with consistent, compassionate communication.
“If I have a question, I email Lisa and she gets back to me the same day with an answer. She will go to Dr. Hale or David and get the answer, AND I am not a bother.”
Now, the Sheep Draw Trail has become more than just a rehab route—it’s a symbol of her resilience.
“Since recovering from my hip replacement, I use the trail system more and with my knee replacement, I will continue to use them. Recovery has made them enjoyable again. I particularly like the Sheep Draw Trail off of 71st Street. It is a very scenic route. Lots of trees, grasses and birds. It’s very refreshing.”
Dr. Hale says this personalized connection with patients is intentional—and foundational to OCR’s identity. “OCR is rooted in Greeley because we believe in small-town values—deep relationships, whole-person care, and taking time to really listen,” says Dr. Hale.
Mary’s story is echoed by fellow OCR patient Sarah Van Diepen, who underwent bilateral total knee replacements with Dr. Dana Clark. For Sarah, the ability to walk pain-free didn’t just restore mobility—it reawakened a deep connection with the outdoors.
“Before surgery, I couldn’t walk without pain,” she says. “After physical therapy, I started engaging in activities I once enjoyed. Walking downhill was painful and slow, but as I grew stronger, it became manageable.”
“Uneven surfaces are challenging for those with bad knees. After the surgery, I experienced improved stability and comfort in my knees, making it easier to walk on any surface.”
With guidance from OCR, Sarah began retraining her body—and mind—to trust movement again.
“Going slowly, concentrating on walking, picking up your feet, and walking heel to toe is essential. Because I had altered my way of walking for so long, I needed to relearn how to walk and build my confidence.”
“Now I focus less on surfaces and inclines, and more on the scenery, wildlife, and the changing seasons.”
OCR’s team was with her at every step, providing encouragement, education, and an atmosphere of kindness and grace.
“My orthopedic team supported me throughout my journey. From the first appointment to the education, I received from the pre-op educator, the day of surgery, post-op appointments, physical therapy, and the final appointment with the surgeon.”
“All staff members along my journey demonstrated patience, understanding, tolerance, grace, humor, and dedication to providing the best service possible.”
Reflecting on the broader impact of orthopedic care, Dr. Clark emphasizes the deeply human side of his work.
“We don’t just treat joints—we treat people, with names, families, goals, and stories. That’s what makes our work in this community so meaningful,” says Dr. Clark.
Craig Rasmuson, who had an anterior hip replacement in 2024 with Dr. Hale, shares the same gratitude. After completing his initial therapy with OCR’s exceptional west Greeley team, Craig embraced the city’s extensive trail network—from Twin Rivers Park to the Poudre River Trail—as an active part of his rehabilitation.
He praises the trails for their gradual elevation changes, safety, and flexibility, calling them “a gift for Greeley residents.” The combination of personalized care at OCR and access to these public resources, he says, made his hip “feel better than ever.” For Craig, recovery wasn’t just about returning to normal—it was about reclaiming the activities that bring joy and energy to daily life.
Together, Mary, Sarah, and Craig represent a larger truth: recovery doesn’t happen in isolation. It’s a partnership—between patient and provider, between community and environment. With OCR’s expert care and Greeley’s thoughtfully maintained trail system, our residents aren’t just recovering—they’re thriving.
So the next time you pass someone walking a little taller on Sheep Draw or biking with a little more joy along the Poudre, know this: they just might be walking their way back to life—with a little help from OCR and the place we all call home.
“OCR is rooted in Greeley because we believe in small-town values—deep relationships, whole-person care, and taking time to really listen." —Dr. Riley Hale
“We don’t just treat joints—we treat people, with names, families, goals, and stories. That’s what makes our work in this community so meaningful." —Dr. Dana Clark