Harris Regional and Swain Community Hospitals are organizing an event called Step Into Wellness on Wednesday, September 17, 2025. The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Jackson County Greenway, starting at the parking area located at 342 Old Cullowhee Rd. in Cullowhee. Participants will follow the walking path for various activities.
Step Into Wellness is a change from the hospitals’ previous Patient Appreciation Day events, moving this year’s celebration outdoors to promote healthy living and community engagement. Attendees can walk along the Greenway, visit wellness tables set up along the trail, and interact with hospital staff in person.
Ashley Hindman, CEO of Harris Regional and Swain Community Hospitals, said: “At Harris Regional and Swain Community Hospitals, our patients are at the heart of everything we do. Step Into Wellness is our way of expressing gratitude to the community that places its trust in us, while encouraging healthier living in an engaging and meaningful way.”
The event will also introduce Paul Ulrich, MD, who has recently joined Harris Regional Hospital’s medical staff. Dr. Ulrich will begin seeing patients at Harris Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine in September and specializes in anterior hip surgeries using robotics for improved precision and recovery during joint replacement procedures. Those attending Step Into Wellness can meet Dr. Ulrich to learn more about his expertise.
Step Into Wellness is free and open to everyone in the community. Organizers encourage people to stop by anytime between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., take part in health-focused activities, meet hospital team members, and join a day dedicated to health awareness.
