Harris Regional Hospital and Swain Community Hospitals are organizing a community 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, with the starting point at the Greenway’s parking area located at 342 Old Cullowhee Rd. in Cullowhee.
This event is an update to the hospitals’ annual Patient Appreciation Day and aims to thank patients and local residents for their trust in Harris Regional Hospital while encouraging healthy living. The format has shifted from an indoor hospital gathering to an outdoor setting, where participants can walk along the Greenway, visit wellness tables set up along the path, and interact with hospital staff.
Ashley Hindman, CEO of Harris Regional and Swain Community Hospitals, stated: “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 recently joined Harris Regional Hospital’s medical staff. Dr. Ulrich will begin seeing patients at Harris Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine in September. He specializes in anterior hip surgeries using robotic technology to improve precision and recovery for joint replacement patients. Attendees will have a chance to meet Dr. Ulrich during the event and learn about his work.
Step Into Wellness is free of charge and open to all community members. Visitors are welcome to join anytime between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., walk the trail, connect with hospital representatives, and take part in activities focused on health and appreciation for the community.
