09/10/2025
On a recent trip to Alaska, Warren climbed back onto a dog sled for the first time in decades. Thanks to a new knee and lease on life, he got to share that moment with his grandkids.
“I first injured my knee playing high school football, then tore it up again years later while hunting and living in Alaska. I had surgery in 1972 and managed for a while. I even did some recreational dog mushing.
By my forties, the pain started creeping in again. Eventually, I had to give up hunting. Then mushing. Then long walks. The last five years were the worst, with constant pain, trouble sleeping, and no relief that lasted. That’s when I went to Dr. Brian Dahl.
We tried all the conservative methods first. They helped for a bit, but eventually, I hit my limit. I remember telling Dr. Dahl, ‘I’m actually looking forward to surgery.’ He laughed and said that was the first time he’d heard that.
Rehab took work, but I did it right. Now, I can walk just about anywhere. I’m on the treadmill. I ride the stationary bike. I work out every day. I have three grandchildren. We went to Disney World, and I was able to keep up.
On our Alaska trip, I set up a dryland dog mushing tour. It felt amazing to be back on a sled, bouncing through the trails. I never thought I’d do that again.
I’m incredibly thankful for Dr. Dahl and the team at The Bone & Joint Center. They gave me my life back.”
