When Maddie stepped onto the ice for one of the first hockey games of the season, she never imagined how quickly her world was about to change. A fierce competitor and lifelong athlete, Maddie was chasing the puck behind her own net when a devastating open-ice collision resulted in a severely broken femur. “This girl just came straight through me and broke my femur on impact,” she recalls. “It wasn’t even against the boards. I thought I’d be able to get up, but as soon as I lifted my head, the pain hit me. I just started screaming.”

A Diagnosis That Changed Everything

Maddie was rushed to Hasbro Children’s Hospital, where doctors confirmed a femur fracture that required immediate surgery. Overnight, she was placed in traction, and by morning, surgeons had inserted a rod and screws to stabilize her leg. But for Maddie, a bigger question loomed: would she ever play hockey again?

Growing up in a family where hockey ran deep—her uncle and cousins all played—the sport had become part of her identity. “As an athlete, you want to rush to get back to the sport you love,” she said. “But this was different. This wasn’t just a sprained ankle or a broken arm.”

Physical Therapy: The Path Forward

Just a week after being discharged, Maddie began physical therapy with University Orthopedics under the guidance of Dan Bien, PT and Russell White, PTA. Her treatment began early to minimize long-term complications like muscle weakness and stiffness. “She had a significant femur fracture that required hardware,” Bien explained. “Starting early was critical—not just for physical recovery, but to help maintain her competitive spirit.”

The road was long. For a year, Maddie attended therapy twice a week, each session lasting up to two hours. On her off days, she continued her workouts at the gym. “It wasn’t just about coming to PT,” Maddie said. “It was about the effort I put in outside of those appointments, too.”

A Team Effort—On and Off the Ice

Rehabilitation from a traumatic injury isn’t just physical—it’s deeply psychological. “There are fits and starts, plateaus, and frustration,” said Bien. “But we kept her focused and motivated.” Maddie’s therapists did more than guide her exercises; they kept her spirits high, encouraged her through the tough days, and celebrated her milestones.

Maddie’s perseverance and the dedication of her care team paid off. Though sidelined, she returned to her team that season—not as a player, but as a leader. “Even though I wasn’t on the ice at first, I was there for my teammates. Their support helped us get to the state championship that year.”

From Hospital Bed to MVP

Maddie didn’t just return—she soared. In her senior year, she helped her team win the Rhode Island State Championship, scored a goal in the title game, and earned Most Valuable Player honors. “Watching her skate again, score a goal, and win MVP—it’s rewarding beyond words,” Russell said. “To know we played a small role in that is a privilege.”

Now, Maddie is headed to the University of New England to play Division III hockey. “I knew I wanted to play at the next level, and every gym session and therapy appointment helped me get there,” she said. “The work was worth it.”

More Than Therapy—A Lifelong Bond

Reflecting on her journey, Maddie shared, “Working with Russ and Dan wasn’t just physical therapy—they became like family. Without their support, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”

Her story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible with the right care, determination, and team behind you. At University Orthopedics, we’re proud to be part of stories like Maddie’s—where recovery is not just about healing, but about reclaiming what you love.