Dr. Paul Apyan, an orthopedic surgeon with University Orthopedics, will be awarded the Individual Leadership Award for the Joint Walk from the Arthritis Foundation, Tennessee Chapter. The award will be presented during the organization’s Annual Meeting in Nashville on November 28.
Dr. Apyan said he feels privileged to be receiving the award and added, “This honor is shared with many others who have also volunteered and have been critical to the success of the Joint Walk.” He sees his involvement in the event as part of being an effective doctor to his patients with arthritis. He said, “While I have the ability to help many of them surgically and to manage their medication effectively, I also believe part of my role is to encourage them, by example, to stay active.”
The Joint Walk is a nationwide event, started in 1994 as a cooperative effort between the American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons and the Arthritis Foundation. The walk is held every May. Dr. Apyan has participated since the beginning and has been a board member since 1997. He recommends many other Arthritis Association programs to his patients.
According to Germaine Gauerke, President and CEO of the Arthritis Foundation, Tennessee Chapter, “It is a distinct pleasure to honor Dr. Apyan. He has been instrumental in the success of the Joint Walk in Chattanooga, by participating and inspiring the participation of others, including his patients.”
Dr. Apyan plans to continue his involvement with the Arthritis Foundation. He said, “Receiving this award will serve as self-motivation to contribute more to the people I serve and to the organization. Together, we can achieve great things.”