Patrick Conley

Patrick Conley describes his life as an “unconventional, nonconforming, entrepreneurial life.”

Patrick has an affinity for the vast landscapes of Arizona, which underlines much of his life. For many years, he has shared his knowledge of the various rock formations of the Grand Canyon, Marble Canyon, and other areas of the state. Since 1969, Patrick has been a river guide on the Colorado River and led expeditions as a wilderness outfitter. His wide-ranging knowledge of the land has even led Patrick to assist with scouting beautiful, scenic locations for Hollywood movies filmed in the state.

Perhaps most significantly, though, is Patrick’s non-profit work, including being one of the founders of Grand Canyon Youth. “Giving back is what life is all about and brings so much joy,” he humbly stated.

However, health issues have recently slowed Patrick’s active lifestyle. He recalls having difficulty walking a couple of years ago, the result of his right hip being “bone on bone.” During a river trip on the San Juan River, Patrick struggled mightily. “I basically had to roll on and off the boat due to my hip. It was so disabling,” he recalled.

Within the following year, Patrick underwent a right anterior total hip arthroplasty. This is a type of hip replacement where a small incision is made near the front of the hip to allow for the removal of damaged bone and cartilage, while the implantation of an artificial hip is done without damaging the surrounding muscle and tendons.

Having previously undergone lumbar spine surgery, as well as the repair of an Achille’s tendon injury, Patrick knew what to expect in recovering from orthopedic surgery. I remember how difficult it was to obtain access to physical therapy and the strain it was on my family,” he noted.

Desiring to walk without pain and resume his previously active lifestyle, Patrick took a proactive approach to his recovery. A friend told him about Rehabilitation Hospital of Northern Arizona (RHNA) and the concentrated therapies (physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy) offered at the hospital. Patrick contacted the hospital and scheduled a tour with a clinical liaison.

“After that tour and hearing what [RHNA] had to offer, I knew this would be the best place to get the best access to therapy and recover fully,” Patrick recalled. “Having therapy for three hours a day was huge!”

While at RHNA, Patrick reveled in the “harmonious location of the facility, being on Switzer Mesa, and its inspirational views.” The location proved to be just right for Patrick during his recovery. “I enjoyed visiting with my family in the outdoor space, in addition to the indoor space. Switzer Mesa is special for me as I enjoy many walks at Buffalo Park, which is across the way.”

“In fact, since my surgery, I am completing 20-minute miles at Buffalo park. Those walks were hard to complete when I was bone on bone,” Patrick added with a smile.

“The gym was so spacious and terrific. I could not have asked for anything more. I was so lucky to get into RHNA,” Patrick continued. “I appreciated the community atmosphere and being able to interact with other patients. I got to be friends with many of them. Listening to their stories and sharing mine made it a more enjoyable experience.”

Patrick also had many wonderful things to say about the staff at RHNA.

“The kitchen staff had such inventiveness with the food. You know they are working on a budget, but that did not stop them from serving us great meals. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food.”

“A person that sticks out in my mind is nurse Kyler. He was bright, inquisitive, and enthusiastic about his work. At rehab, you need someone to lead you through the steps to get you back on your feet, and the therapy team was key to my recovery and key to the level I could reach. They help you learn what you are capable of with safe limits. I learned not to overdo it.”

As he continues to heal and regain strength, Patrick looks forward to actively participating more with his family, walking longer distances, and traveling. He enjoys spending time with his grandchildren and is anticipating the birth of another grandchild in a few months. Patrick even got another chance at a river trip on the San Juan River.

“It was a life-changing experience with how much more mobile I was.”

Asked how he defines success, Patrick stated, “the greatest impact is drawing people together in networks. I don’t take credit for success. I’m grateful to all who have helped me along the way throughout my life. I am a very lucky guy. The view of the universe is chaos, but it is humbling, and I have so much gratitude for all I have experienced and continue to experience.”