It came in like a wrecking ball. In October 2014 the doctor delivered me the awful news that surgery was needed on my right knee for a torn ACL. The very next week I was placed in care at Adventist HealthCare for a two hour procedure.  Under the careful expertise of one of the best in his field, Dr. Peterson of Shady Grove Orthopedics, performed an arthroscopic repair of my ligament and meniscus.

Broken but not defeated!

Before and after the operation my worries were eased by the fact that here in Rockville, Maryland we produce some of the best trained medical professionals in America.  Just two blocks away from the hospital is the number one campus in the nation, the Universities at Shady Grove, and this brought me peace of mind.  Nearby is the Rockville campus for John Hopkins University which further enriches our community with talented and motivated medical professionals.

5th May, 2013 I ran the half marathon in Frederick. This year the Rock n’ Roll in D.C.

My recovery was amazing, like wolverine from X-men I regenerated.  In just over three months post operation my legs are strong enough for a short jog on the treadmill.  Motivated, I have eased back into the hobby that I have loved for so many years, running (definitely NOT soccer, I am done with that dangerous sport).  Inspired to share my passion for this beneficial activity with my friends and classmates on campus, I have decided to create a running club.  At USG students can create organizations through the Connect@USG website, an easy 8 step process is all it takes.  Rachel Wolohan is the person you want to get in contact with as she heads the department for student life, and I am also happy to announce has committed to becoming our advisor for the club (yay!).  Keep your eyes open students, next week expect to find posters around campus for sign-up, all levels of running: beginner and advanced are encouraged to email me at derek.nehls@hotmail.com for more information.  To become official we need a strong name, help me come up with the perfect name with your suggestions in the comment section below.  Thanks and hopefully I will see you on the trails!!