In the event of inclement weather, we will post any cancellations or postponements on our Facebook Page. We will also make every effort to contact all volunteers. Please DO NOT check the website, as we do not have the ability to update that in a timely fashion. Please direct any further questions to 402-262-0144 or 402-660-1680.
Amy Birkel is a dynamic and results oriented leader with a proven track record in operations and management. As the Chief Operating Officer at Heritage Communities Amy oversees a diverse portfolio of senior living communities spanning four states.
Amy’s journey in senior care began years ago as a caregiver fostering a deep understanding of the unique needs and aspirations of residents. Her dedication and strategic vision have propelled her through various leadership positions. Throughout her journey, Amy’s central focus has been on enhancing the lives of older adults, ensuring they can live life to the fullest.
An Omaha native, Dr. Coffey is an orthopedic surgeon who focuses on pain, injuries and conditions of the hand, wrist and elbow. He has had longtime involvement with athletics at Creighton Prep High School and especially enjoys baseball, music, and exploring his Irish Catholic heritage.
Dr. Coffey is honored to serve as this year’s Medical Honoree for the Nebraska Walk to Cure Arthritis and has hopes he can help raise awareness to help find a cure for arthritis.
Don Dravland Rheumatoid Arthritis Adult Honoree
Don was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at age 27 in 1987. In February of that year, he had a left hip replacement. He started work at The Pines Country club in Valley 3 weeks later (where he still works today).
Don went on to have seven more surgeries through the years, elbow, two hip replacements, and four wrist surgeries. He is very grateful to Dr. Alan Jacobs and Dr. Kristin Twidwell at the Arthritis Center of Nebraska in Lincoln. They have helped him tremendously.
Don maintains a positive attitude. He misses playing competitive golf (now he is a casual golfer with no expectations). But he does not let rheumatoid arthritis slow him down.
Morgan Romesser Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Youth Honoree
At the age of 18 months, Morgan could not walk. Luckily, her diagnosis was quick. She thanks Dr. Adam Reinhardt and Natalie Gomez for the quick response. Today, at nine years old she is in remission. Even though she can do most activities, she still factors in the pain.
Morgan is grateful to her family, having a home, being able to play with her friends and ride her bike. She loved getting the JA Power Pack. The teddy bear in the power pack helped with her pain. She accepted being the honoree because not only did she think it would be fun, but to share information about her journey with juvenile arthritis. Her hopes for the future are that those with arthritis have no pain and that a cure can be found.
Amy Birkel is a dynamic and results oriented leader with a proven track record in operations and management. As the Chief Operating Officer at Heritage Communities Amy oversees a diverse portfolio of senior living communities spanning four states.
An Omaha native, Dr. Coffey is an orthopedic surgeon who focuses on pain, injuries and conditions of the hand, wrist and elbow. He has had longtime involvement with athletics at Creighton Prep High School and especially enjoys baseball, music, and exploring his Irish Catholic heritage.
Don was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at age 27 in 1987. In February of that year, he had a left hip replacement. He started work at The Pines Country club in Valley 3 weeks later (where he still works today).
At the age of 18 months, Morgan could not walk. Luckily, her diagnosis was quick. She thanks Dr. Adam Reinhardt and Natalie Gomez for the quick response. Today, at nine years old she is in remission. Even though she can do most activities, she still factors in the pain.