Hanger Clinic Integrated Care Center

10/15/2026

Would you believe it if we told you that before coming to the ICC, Bill bought his first microprocessor leg on eBay? 💻

In August of 2021, COVID complications led to blood clots in both of Bill's legs which eventually resulted in a month's long coma, the amputation of both his legs, and a fight he never saw coming.

After his amputations, Bill spent several years trying 7 different sockets looking for something that will would work for him. Once he found Hanger Clinic and the ICC, every changed ❤️

Within a month of walking through the door, he was mobile again—finally with a socket that actually fit.

"I love everything about this place. Tom knows what he's doing and works hard to get me where I want to be," said Bill.

Now, Bill is back to working in his machine shop and as a charter captain on Lake Michigan. And after a year and a half with Tom and the team at the Integrated Care Center, he's only getting stronger!

"It is important to have places like this. It truly makes a difference." 🙏

We are so grateful to be a part of your journey, Bill!

10/09/2026

Not only is the Integrated Care Center a great place for patients to learn new skills, it's also an excellent hands-on learning environment for our clinicians and fellow healthcare partners. 🤝

Earlier this week, ICC clinician Ryan Caldwell, along with Hanger's Clinical Leader of Lower Limb Care Excellence, Wendy Re*****on, taught a course on the Northwestern University Subischial Socket. A technology Ryan helped create and develop.

Our ICC team uses clinical evidence to build solutions that impact the lives of the people we serve with improved socket comfort, and quality of life.

Thank you to all of the clinicians who joined us as well as our patient volunteers.

09/17/2026

In late 2024, while doing yard work, Lawrence suffered a traumatic injury to his right ankle and leg. After a year of treatment at the hands of orthopedic specialists, four surgeries and five infections, he was nowhere near the healing he had hoped for.

A consultation with a new physician in early 2026 ultimately led him to make the decision to amputate.

After meeting Tom and the Integrated Care Center team in May 2026, Lawrence was amazed by the progress he could make in such a short amount of time.

"I cannot say enough positive and great things about the experience," said Lawrence. "I have returned to work, I'm wearing my prosthetic full time, and I get stronger and braver every day."

His daughters provide daily and constant support, and he has an amazing core of friends.

When asked what advice he'd give to other new amputees?

"You will make it. My health is better, my outlook is better, and every day gets better. Keep going. Celebrate everything you do."

Thank you for sharing your story with us, Lawrence!

09/10/2026

With nearly 70 attendees, the walking school hosted at the ICC last night was a huge success! 👟

Patients discovered practical techniques to move with confidence and strength in their prosthetics. Our physical therapy partners practiced hands-on approaches to better support their patients. But more than anything, it was a reminder that we're stronger together. 🙌

Thank you to all who attended. We hope to see you back soon! &p

09/03/2026

At eighteen, a car accident sandwiched Andrew between two trucks and ended his wrestling career. The recovery led to prescribed painkillers in 2005—drugs he was assured were safe. Instead, he spent over a decade battling addiction.

Then, an overdose in 2020 cost him both his legs above the knee. He spent five months in the hospital, three more in rehab, and had a crushing weight of shame that nearly broke him.

Everything shifted when he met Matt Brewer—another amputee with a very similar story. Seeing Matt thrive made Andrew believe he could too. With support from prosthetist Wendy, he began rebuilding his life.

“Matt was running circles around me and I thought, ‘if he could do that why can’t I?’”

Earlier this summer, Andrew traveled all the way from Rhode Island to the Integrated Care Center to work with clinician Tom O’Doherty.

They spent several days working on specialized sockets with a quick turnaround so that Andrew could stay and join us for BAKA Bootcamp (his fourth time attending)!

More than just physical recovery, Andrew found the strength to share his story—transforming his shame into purpose.

Thank you for letting us witness your journey, Andrew. You’ve made incredible strides and we can’t wait to see what you do next!

09/03/2026

🚶‍♂️ Walk with Confidence!

Join us at the ICC for an Amputee Walking School featuring guest speakers Todd Shaffauser (Paralympic gold medalist) and Curtis Wainman (PT specialist). Patients will learn how to master their prosthetic and move with strength and confidence, while physical therapists will gain invaluable skills and techniques to help their patients achieve their goals.

📅 Wednesday, September 9 | 5:30-8:30 PM
📍 Hanger Clinic Integrated Care Center, Schaumburg, IL

✅ FREE for amputees & families
✅ $45 CEUs for Physical Therapists (3 credits)
✅ Dinner included
✅ Expert instruction

👉 Register today: hangerclinic.com/patients/amputee-walking-school/

Amputee Walking School by Hanger Clinic This course offers a unique opportunity for collaboration between amputees and therapists. Amputees of all ages

08/21/2026

Despite being born with congenital limb loss, Carol has always focused on what's possible. 💪

"I always think of it as what I can do instead of what I can't. You might do it differently, but you still can."

With a positive outlook and a personality that lights up every room, Carol has embraced every chapter of life with confidence and determination. From raising an amazing family to building a life and career in Belgium, she continues to inspire everyone around her.

Her family lovingly refers to her prosthetic as her "lucky arm," a nod to Nemo's "lucky fin" in the movie, that perfectly reflects how they see her: not for her differences, but simply as Mom. 🐠

Seeking the latest advancements in upper limb prosthetic care, Carol traveled from Belgium to our Integrated Care Center in the Chicago suburbs, where she spent four days working with her care team, including ICC upper limb specialist Tim Russo, certified orthotic fitter King Ng, and clinician James Hiller.

In just two days, Tim and his team successfully fit Carol with a brand-new prosthetic, helping her continue doing the things she loves with confidence.

Over the years, Carol has learned that with the right mindset and the right support, anything is possible.
"You just have to believe that you can do it."

What are you capable of?

We were so happy to host you and learn more about your story, Carol!

08/14/2026

Meet Carrie 🏔️

Twenty-four years ago, a tragic accident changed Carrie’s life forever. As a dedicated night shift neonatal ICU nurse, she was on her way to church one winter morning when she was struck by a school bus. After three months in the hospital, nine surgeries, and an amputation, Carrie faced an uncertain future.

For 16 years, Carrie worked with her prosthetic provider, and when she was referred to Hanger Clinic and Ryan, something special happened. “I trust and love this company,” Carrie says. “I am so thankful for this facility, for Ryan and the people he works with.”

Today, Carrie is living proof of what’s possible with the right support. She’s an active member of her church community, she volunteers with her local Filipino-American organization, and last September, with the support of Ryan and the Hanger team, she climbed Apparition Hill Medjugorje—scaling 100 steps.
Thank you, Carrie, for showing us your resilience and strength!

07/23/2026

First, we work hard. Then, we play hard 🧗‍♀️

Clinician Tom O'Doherty provides care for many patients in the Chicago Adaptive Sports Community and loves any opportunity to make use of the ICC's rock climbing wall! One of his goals is to make sure that his patients can always partake in the hobbies they love or to challenge themselves to try something new.

A big part of that process? Having fun!

07/16/2026

From the soccer pitch to the comeback of a lifetime. 💪⚽

After a cardiac arrest changed everything for Ahmed, what followed was a journey of resilience, acceptance, and unstoppable determination.

During a soccer game, Ahmed suddenly collapsed and it took over 40 minutes to resuscitate him. After an intense open-heart surgery, and continuous cutoff of blood flow to his legs, they made the tough decision to amputate both of his legs below the knee earlier this year.

With an incredible support system by his side—family, friends, and the soccer community—Ahmed discovered that the real victory isn’t just returning to the game. It’s redefining what’s possible.

Receiving his first prosthetics in April of this year, Ahmed is already walking like a pro and making quick work at getting back on the field!

When asked what advice he would give to other new amputees, he said “The sooner you accept it, the better you are mentally. It’s become a part of me now.”
Congrats on all you have accomplished so far, Ahmed!