Harris Regional and Swain Community Hospitals will host Step Into Wellness on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the Jackson County Greenway. Attendees are invited to begin at the Greenway’s parking area, located at 342 Old Cullowhee Rd. in Cullowhee, and will be directed along the walking path for activities.

The event, an evolution of the hospital’s annual Patient Appreciation Day, is designed to thank patients and community members for their trust in Harris Regional Hospital while promoting healthy lifestyles. Instead of a celebration within the hospital, this year’s event will take place outdoors, inviting the community to walk the Greenway, visit wellness tables along the trail, and connect with hospital staff in an interactive setting.

“At Harris Regional and Swain Community Hospitals, our patients are at the heart of everything we do,” said Ashley Hindman, CEO. “Step Into Wellness is our way of expressing gratitude to the community that places its trust in us, while encouraging healthier living in an engaging and meaningful way.”

The event will also highlight Paul Ulrich, MD, who was recently welcomed to the Harris Regional Hospital medical staff and will begin seeing patients at Harris Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine in September. Dr. Ulrich specializes in anterior hip surgeries, utilizing robotics to enhance precision and recovery for joint replacement patients. Community members will have the opportunity to meet Dr. Ulrich at the event to learn more about his expertise and services.

Step Into Wellness is free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to stop by anytime between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. to walk the Greenway, meet members of the hospital team, and participate in a day dedicated to health and community appreciation.