Providence caregiver receives top notch care for common problem

Devin Yates has been a Providence caregiver since 2016. In 2023, he gained another title – Providence orthopedics patient.

As a fitness enthusiast, Devin spends a lot of his time working out both in his work life and personal life. For Providence, he’s the senior program manager and teaches Avade classes for caregivers, a hands-on self-defense class. Outside of work, he loves lifting weights, boxing and swimming.

Last year, Devin noticed a sharp pain in his right shoulder and could not do many of the activities he enjoys. It made him worried about his future.

“It made me question if I was going to have to change the activities that I do to stay healthy and on the professional side, I worried I was going to have to retire as a teacher,” Yates said.

Yates met with Dr. Jeremiah Clinton, a surgeon with the Providence Orthopedic Institute at Providence Holy Family Hospital. Dr. Clinton told Yates he had an arthritic issue and assured him that his condition required an easy surgical solution.

“Some of my happiest patients are the simplest surgeries,” Dr. Clinton said. “I’m a mechanic, I’m a seamstress, I’m a carpenter — if there’s something that’s unstable, I can tighten it up. If it’s worn out, I can replace the bearing.”

Yates said the experience from start to finish was extraordinary. Today he is back to teaching self-defense courses and working out regularly without limitations. He was so pleased with his care that he wrote a letter to hospital leadership to thank them.

“I walked out of there so inspired, so touched, by the way they treated me,” Yates said. “I am proud to work for an organization that employs these wonderful people that provide this level of care. It really distinguishes Providence from the rest.”

Learn more about Providence Orthopedics and Sports Medicine by visiting our website: Orthopedics & Sports Medicine - North Spokane | Providence