Hear from patients who trusted SCMC Orthopedics—and got back to what matters most.

Every patient has a story—and behind every story is a team committed to helping them heal, move, and live without limits.

This page brings together real experiences from patients who have received orthopedic care at SCMC. From first visits to recovery, these stories reflect the dedication, coordination, and compassion of Dr. Tim Jay and the entire orthopedic team.

Explore the stories below to learn more about what patients experienced—and how they got back to doing what they love. Click each story below to read the full patient experience.

Stories from our happy patients:

Marlon L. Story

Marlon L. Story:

I want to give the staff of SCMC a huge "Thank You" for the excellent care I have been given. I had my left hip replaced, which was giving me extreme pain and almost a total loss of mobility.

I met with Greg Rapp at SCMC Starbuck Clinic and he contacted his colleague, Dr. Jay to check and see if they could help me. After a couple of phone calls and a short meeting with Dr. Jay, I was scheduled for surgery in less than a week's time!

I was very apprehensive about surgery, except for tonsils I had never had any issues. Dr. Jay had explained the procedure to me, and the OR crew and the floor nurses did the rest. The wonderful care, the explanation of the spinal by Randy Lussenden (CRNA) and Dr. Jay's skills soon became very evident.

I had almost no pain after surgery compared to what I was experiencing prior to surgery. I dropped from an 8 or 9 to a 2 or 3 overnight on the pain scale. I was up and moving with the aid of a walker within a day.

I finished up my 6 weeks of PT with the staff and it has been very well coordinated and conducted in a professional way. The knowledge they had of my needs and requirements has been outstanding. I am well on my way to the golf course!

I personally recommend SCMC, Dr. Jay, and the entire staff for any of your healthcare needs.

Stephanie M. Story

To all who have cared for me over the course of my treatment, please accept my gratitude. From scheduling to my initial evaluation to anesthesia prep and surgery, through follow-up visits and PT, everyone has been kind and thorough and going the extra mile to provide great care and making it easy to be a patient.

I am so appreciative of Dr. Jay and his colleagues not only for the expert, meticulous repair of my knew but for being so compassionate and receptive to my questions and preferences.

There is a feeling of vulnerability going into surgery, and so to be treated with this respect and attention to my needs means so much. Thanks to all of you!

Janis D. Story

Janis D. Story (iovera):

Three weeks ago, I could not put weight on my right leg without having shooting pain. Scans and an MRI revealed no structural breaks or tears. As I was evaluated in Urgent Care, then sent ot ER, and finally placed in the hospital. I was given stronger and stronger medications to help with the pain. I was only able to stand and walk a short distance while using a walker. I had to physically lift my right leg when I went to bed and got in the car.

My test results were evaluated, and the recommendation was for a nerve block. I had four nerve blocks put in my right leg. The immediate results were amazing. I was able to walk. As my body healed the following week, I could get into bed without lifting my right leg.

One night, I noticed I had crossed my legs and not lifted my right leg. Today, I walked one mile outside. As I continue to get strength back in my right leg, I look forward to playing pickleball and another hiking trip in the mountains. Thank you, SCMC for your assessment of my problem and for providing treatment that was given me back my ability to move without pain. I have not taken any pain medication since the nerve blocks.

Randee H. Story

Randee H. Story:

My experience of reaching full potential of activity and movement with no pain has been something to give great thanks to SCMC for. In a period of 6 months with a 4-month interval between surgeries, I had two knee replacements. Dr. Jay and the staff, including surgical team, nurses, and x-ray techs were very professional, caring, and all great cheerleaders for my success.

Stevens County and the region are very fortunate to have a professional facility like SCMC. My phiyscal therapy at NovaCare located right in SCMC was also amazing. Caring, challenging and totally onboard with the mission of getting the patient in the best condition for maximum outcomes. Thank you, thank you. I'm also spreading the word and showing by example as people can observe my outcomes!

Have a story to share?

We’d love to hear it. Contact the SCMC Marketing Department at [email protected] or 320-589-7631.
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