Today, HaysMed celebrates the remarkable progress of Becky Kellerman, who was discharged from the hospital’s In‑Patient Rehabilitation Unit following a stroke she suffered on March 5. Her journey over the past two weeks has been defined by resilience, determination, and the steady support of her care team.

Becky, who was home alone when the stroke occurred, said the days leading up to it were marked only by unusual spells of dizziness, nothing she recognized as a warning sign. When the emergency struck, she was able to dial 911 herself, a moment she believes made all the difference.

“I credit the paramedics and EMTs,” Becky shared. “They arrived so quickly and were so kind. I am incredibly grateful for them.”

Initially stunned to learn she had suffered a stroke, Becky faced sudden challenges with her vision and weakness in her left arm. But from the moment she arrived at HaysMed’s In‑Patient Rehabilitation Unit, she committed herself fully to the work ahead.

Under the guidance of Dr. Stephen Wanjala and Dr. Erin Hemphill, Becky began a structured rehabilitation program that included three hours of therapy each day. Her rehab plan included occupational therapy, speech therapy, and focused work to address her vision challenges, something she says made a noticeable difference.

Her progress has been steady and encouraging. “I’ve improved a little every single day,” Becky said. During her stay, she reached several important milestones including being able to enjoy reading her library book again. She also found comfort in listening to calming music throughout her recovery.

Becky expressed deep appreciation for the entire In‑Patient Rehabilitation team. “Everyone in this department has been supportive. They communicate so well. I felt cared for every step of the way.”

Her physicians estimate that within six months to a year, Becky should be able to regain her pre‑stroke function. She will continue her recovery through out‑patient rehabilitation at The Center for Health Improvement, a part of HaysMed.

A longtime member of the Hays community, Becky has lived here since 1976. She spent more than 30 years working as a Registered Medical Technologist, including 10 years in the HaysMed Pathology Lab. Now, she’s looking forward to returning home, and returning to the activities and people she loves.

Reflecting on her experience, Becky said, “HaysMed and the in‑patient rehab unit have been incredible. I couldn’t have asked for better care.”

Becky’s story is a reminder of the power of quick action, specialized rehabilitation, and a patient’s determination in the face of unexpected challenges. Today, her care team and the entire HaysMed community celebrate her progress, and the promising road ahead.

Becky Kellerman, Hays, Kansas

HaysMed is proud to announce the addition of Adam Wait, D.O., an orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, arthroscopy of the shoulder, hip, and knee, and advanced fracture care.

Dr. Wait will practice alongside HaysMed’s skilled orthopedic team and will play a key role in expanding the capabilities of the HaysMed Sports Medicine program, partnering closely with Dr. Wally Walstrom and Dr. Kelly Moeder as the official physicians of Fort Hays State University Athletics. With his arrival, HaysMed further strengthens its position as the region’s premier destination for high‑quality orthopedic and sports medicine services.

Dr. Wait most recently served as an orthopedic surgeon in Kansas City, where he focused on sports medicine and fracture care, delivering surgical care within one of the region’s leading specialty groups.

Before his career in Kansas City, Dr. Wait practiced general orthopedics and sports medicine at Western Missouri Medical Center from 2011 to 2015. During that time, he also gave back to the community through athletic coverage, providing sports medicine services for multiple area high schools, supporting University of Central Missouri student‑athletes, and delivering orthopedic care for personnel at Whiteman Air Force Base.

After earning his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences in 2005, Dr. Wait completed an orthopedic residency at Pinnacle Health System in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. He then pursued advanced specialty training through a prestigious Sports Medicine and Arthroscopy Fellowship at the University of South Florida in Tampa.

These experiences shaped his philosophy of care: meet patients where they are and return people to the activities they love.

Dr. Wait brings a new skill set to HaysMed. As a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Wait offers highly specialized care, including:

• Minimally invasive knee arthroscopy (ACL and meniscus)
• Hip arthroscopy with labral repair
• Shoulder arthroscopy such as rotator cuff repair and instability procedures
• Comprehensive sports injury evaluation and treatment
• Advanced fracture and trauma care

A native Kansan, Dr. Wait grew up in El Dorado and graduated from El Dorado High School before attending Ottawa University for his undergraduate education.

Strengthening Sports Medicine for the Region

HaysMed President and CEO, Eddie Herrman, shared his excitement about the addition of Dr. Wait:
“Dr. Wait brings a powerful combination of skill, experience, and specialized training that elevates our entire orthopedic program. His expertise in sports medicine and arthroscopy is a game changer for our region, especially when paired with HaysMed’s exceptional outpatient physical therapy services. We are thrilled to welcome him and expand the care options available to the communities we serve.”

Dr. Wait echoed this enthusiasm and noted his commitment to supporting Kansas families and athletes:
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to build my practice at HaysMed and to care for patients in a part of the state that means so much to me personally. As a Kansas native, it’s important to me to serve the people and communities that shaped my values. I look forward to helping patients, from young athletes to active adult, heal, recover, and get back to doing what they love.”

By joining HaysMed’s respected orthopedic and sports medicine providers, Dr. Wait expands the team’s ability to deliver comprehensive, specialized care close to home. His expertise in minimally invasive procedures, complex arthroscopy, and fracture management enhances treatment options for patients throughout Western Kansas, ensuring more families can access advanced orthopedic care without leaving the region.

HaysMed is proud to announce Rachel Trendel, Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), as the newest recipient of the BEE (Being Excellent Every Day) Award, which recognizes outstanding non‑nursing team members whose dedication helps nurses provide exceptional patient care.

Take a moment to read the heartfelt nomination submitted by a patient’s family member:

“During a recent stay at HaysMed, my husband was a patient in the acute care. It was there that we experienced the kindness and compassion of Rachel. I was marveled at the skill and patience she displayed as she moved my husband carefully and took time to help him get more comfortable. Rachel was thoughtful about bringing him a neck pillow (I don’t think anyone had ever done that before for him) and worked with his hands to make them more comfortable. She seemed to notice things that would help him before anyone else did and addressed those needs skillfully.

I can’t tell you how much I appreciate Rachel’s extraordinary attention and care. It also meant a great deal to me that she always spoke kindly to him, was empathetic and always managed to make him smile. Rachel’s thoughtfulness extended to me as well, acknowledging me and offering lunch boxes for me to eat.

Rachel’s extraordinary skills and kind heart made some very difficult days easier for my husband and for me! I appreciate all Rachel did for us and wanted to take this opportunity to recognized her.”

Just as a DAISY cannot thrive without a BEE, our nurses depend on the vital support of colleagues like Rachel. As a CNA, Rachel plays a critical role in delivering hands-on, compassionate care, ensuring patients are safe, comfortable, and supported throughout their stay.

Kristy Schlaefli, Director of Acute Care and Obstetrics said, “Rachel’s attentiveness, clinical skill, and genuine kindness truly embody the spirit of the BEE Award. She represents its very essence in the way she cares for patients and supports the team. We are incredibly proud of her and this well‑deserved recognition.”

Patients, families, and Associates are encouraged to nominate outstanding non‑nursing team members who demonstrate extraordinary dedication. Award recipients receive a BEE Award pin, certificate of excellence, and a special recognition package.

If you know a non‑nursing Associate who exemplifies exceptional service, please fill out the BEE Award nomination form to honor their impact.

Pictured from left to right: Kristy Schlaefli, Director of Acute Care and Obstetrics, Rachel Trendel, CNA, BEE Award Recipient, and Tami McNeill, Nursing Services Supervisor.