Jason Meints, PT, DPT
Hanger Clinic
Medical Honoree

Jason Meints is a physical therapist specializing in lower limb loss rehabilitation. Joining Hanger Clinic in 2014, he has been committed to enhancing rehabilitation strategies for individuals with limb loss. His journey in serving the amputee community began in 2013. He is dedicated to improving the quality of life for those with limb differences.

In 2012, Jason obtained his Doctor of Physical Therapy from Des Moines University, laying the groundwork for his career in healthcare. Beyond clinical practice, Jason is actively involved in educational initiatives. He shares his expertise as a guest lecturer at Des Moines University and the University of Nebraska Medical Center, where he educates aspiring physical therapists and healthcare professionals on prosthetics and amputee rehabilitation.

Join or support Jason and Team Hanger today!

Darren Stoop, PT, DPT
Hanger Clinic
Medical Honoree

Darren Stoop is a physical therapist at Hanger Clinic in Omaha. He received his Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and his Doctor of Physical Therapy from Creighton University. His area of specialty is in amputee rehabilitation which comprises most of his clinical caseload. He is an adjunct faculty member at Creighton University’s School of Pharmacy and Health Professions and teaches the Amputations and Prosthetics course in the Doctor of Physical Therapy program. Dr. Stoop is involved in teaching continuing education courses in prosthetics and amputee rehab with the goal of helping physical therapists and other allied health professionals better serve and treat the amputee population.

Join or support Darren and Team Hanger today!

Hallie Hanlon-Ward, MBA, MHR
SSgt, USAF, Ret.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Veteran Honoree

Hallie dedicated 10 years to the United States Air Force, serving her country in both Iraq and Afghanistan. In 2012, her toughest battle began—not on foreign soil, but in her own body. It started with pain in her fingers, something she initially brushed off as a minor injury. But when the pain persisted, she sought the expertise of a rheumatologist and was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in 2013.

Hallie’s story is one of hope and perseverance. She credits her incredible medical team at the Omaha Department of Veterans Affairs and the ongoing advancements in arthritis treatment for helping her regain control of her life.

Join or support Hallie and team, Arthritis Nutcrackers today!

Brooklyn Smit
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Youth Honoree

Diagnosed at the age of 5, because of a swollen knee, Brooklyn, 13, still suffers from pain. Physical activities are limited as well as attending school, even though, she still gets A’s. She loves to sew and make her own clothing. She volunteers at her local animal rescue called Wet-Nose and loves helping the animals there as well as taking care of her cat Emma. Brooklyn loves to read medical books and wants to be a nurse practitioner in the field of rheumatology. She met people just like herself through the annual Arthritis Summit which she attended this year as well as Camp Sisu. Being the honoree gives her the opportunity to share her story and let others know they are not alone.

Join or support Brooklyn and team, Brooklyn's Warriors today!

Dexter
Dog Honoree

Dexter was found as a stray puppy, malnourished and scared. He was rescued by the Whatcom Humane Society, who nursed him back to health and found his forever home with Dave and Lynne Walker. At 12 years old, he now experiences arthritis symptoms, which are well managed with therapy and a monthly shot of Librela. He's a very good boy!