Uniting Expertise and Compassion to Provide Comprehensive Care and Support for Veterans' Physical and Mental Well-Being
Dr. Patricia McHale, an Orthopedic Sports Medicine Surgeon at OrthoCarolina, embodies a profound dedication to supporting veterans. Her journey of advocacy and service reflects a deep respect for those who have served our country and a commitment to improving their lives.
A Journey of Compassion and Advocacy
Dr. McHale’s engagement with veteran support organizations began several years ago during a Wounded Warriors walk in Kings Mountain, NC. This event was a pivotal moment, inspiring her to further contribute to veteran causes.
“I have always had a deep respect for those who are courageous enough to join the military and stand up for our country,” Dr. McHale shares. “When Erika [Gandee] and Tori started the first walk last year, I wanted to support them and the veterans.”
Erika Gandee, Project Management Office Director at OrthoCarolina, also found inspiration through this initiative. She recalls, “Dr. McHale and I did a Wounded Warrior Race a few years ago, and it inspired me that we needed to do more for our veterans and their mental health.” This shared commitment led Erika and her best friend, Tori Torres, to organize the Carry Forward 5K, aimed at benefiting the Wounded Warrior Foundation.
A Commitment to Comprehensive Care
Dr. McHale’s honor for veterans was deepened through her experiences working at the VA during her orthopedic residency. There, she had the honor of meeting many WWII veterans, whom she describes as “stoic, selfless, and rarely complaining.” These encounters reinforced her belief in the need for exceptional care for veterans.“Working at the VA, I learned how crucial it is for veterans to receive top-notch care,” Dr. McHale explains. “The VA system can be challenging, and I am committed to seeing community care VA referrals to ensure veterans get the specialized care they need.”
Supporting organizations like Wounded Warriors and Tunnel to Towers, another charitable organization benefitting veterans and first responders, is crucial to Dr. McHale. Erika echoes this sentiment, sharing, "Our veterans and active military are vital to our country's freedoms, and we must ensure they have all the resources necessary for a better life.”
Orthopedic Care and Innovations
Dr. McHale emphasizes the importance of orthopedic care for veterans. “Orthopaedics can help with mobility challenges and other issues resulting from military service,” she notes. Erika also highlights the impact of orthopedic care, stating, “We’ve heard from many veterans who have shared how life-changing the surgeries performed by our physicians have been for them.” This feedback underscores the critical role that specialized orthopedic care plays in improving the lives of veterans.
The advancements at OrthoCarolina, including the Starfish Procedure by Dr. Bryan Loeffler and Dr. Glenn Gaston in upper extremity prosthetics, are particularly promising for Wounded Warriors.
One remarkable story of OrthoCarolina's veteran care is Jackson's story. Private Jackson Schroeder was home on leave when an accident resulted in him losing four fingers. While this devastating injury could have been the end of his early career in the Army, Schroeder has new opportunities at his disposal thanks to an introduction to Dr. Gaston and Dr. Loeffler during an appointment at the OrthoCarolina Reconstructive Center for Lost Limbs.
Through conversations with his Lieutenant, Jackson found out about a surgery that could help him regain the use of his amputated fingers. That surgery, called the Starfish Procedure, uses Targeted Muscle Reinnervation to give partial hand amputees the opportunity to be fitted for a myoelectric prosthetic and regain the ability to control the movement of individual fingers. This procedure has paved the way for those patients to have access to devices that offer maximal functionality, giving hope to soldiers who have had traumatic injuries to their extremities.
Watch Jackson's Story Here:
A Legacy of Compassion
Dr. McHale’s dedication to supporting veterans through her professional and charitable efforts is a powerful example of compassion and commitment. Her story, along with Erika Gandee’s advocacy and passion, illustrates the profound impact that dedicated individuals can make in the lives of those who have served our country.
"Dr. McHale has been a wonderful supporter of our Veterans and Active Military." - Erika Gandee
As we honor our veterans this Veterans Day, we celebrate Dr. Patricia McHale and Erika Gandee for their unwavering support and dedication to those who fight for our country. Their efforts remind us of the importance of giving back to those who have sacrificed so much, ensuring they receive the care and respect they deserve.
If you or someone you know could benefit from the services provided at OrthoCarolina's Reconstructive Center for Lost Limbs, click here for more information and support.
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