High School Student, Reagan, Received the Full Spectrum of Sports Medicine Care with Covenant Health

Covenant Health LeConte has been Reagan Thomas’s trusted partner in sports medicine care. Through a serious neck injury and a torn ACL, LeConte has been on her team. Our athletic trainers have supported her on the court. Our imaging team has helped her in the clinic. Surgical teams have supported her in the operating room. And our therapy center teams have encouraged her in the rehabilitation gym.  

Reagan’s First Injury 

Sports have always been a big part of Reagan’s life. As a soccer and basketball player, she was used to competing through minor bumps and bruises. But during a basketball game in her junior year, she seriously injured her neck in a collision. 

“I knew right away something wasn’t normal,” Reagan said. “It was definitely one of the scarier moments I’ve experienced in sports.”  

Covenant Health athletic trainer Eli Gass was at the game and responded immediately. He evaluated Reagan on the court and stayed with her until emergency responders arrived.  

“We’ve built a really good relationship over the years,” Reagan said of Gass. “He’s someone you can talk to, ask questions and trust when something doesn’t feel right.” 

At LeConte, Reagan was diagnosed with severe whiplash. She soon began physical therapy at Covenant Health Therapy Center – Sevierville to support her recovery.  

Another Setback, Another Comeback 

Just when Reagan thought her injury was behind her, another challenge arrived. 

During a regional basketball game in her senior year, she planted her right foot and felt a pop in her knee. 

“I had a feeling it was something serious,” Reagan said.  

Again, Reagan’s family chose LeConte for her care. Advanced imaging confirmed a complete ACL tear.  

Through our connected network of specialists, Reagan was referred to Covenant Health’s Fort Sanders Regional Medical Center for surgery. Shortly after, she again began physical therapy at Covenant Health Therapy Center – Sevierville. 

While the recovery process was not easy, Reagan stayed focused on getting stronger. 

Finding Support Through Physical Therapy  

Her therapy team helped her rebuild strength, improve mobility and regain trust in her knee. She said the therapists created an encouraging environment that kept her motivated throughout the process.  

“They’ve all been great to work with,” Reagan said. “Everyone has been supportive, and they’ve helped make a long recovery feel a lot more manageable.”  

Kay Funderburg, rehab manager for Covenant Health Therapy Centers Sevier and South shared: “Reagan approached every phase of her ACL rehabilitation with determination and a positive attitude.  Seeing her overcome challenges and return to activities she enjoys has been one of the most rewarding parts of providing her care.” 

Gass also highlighted Reagan’s determination, stating: “Reagan is the kind of athlete that takes her health and well-being seriously, on and off the playing field. She has battled and overcome a lot of adversity. Most people would back off and call it quits, but not Reagan.” 

Looking Ahead 

Reagan’s experience as a patient has given her a deeper appreciation for the people who help others through difficult moments. Today, she is preparing to begin nursing school. Her goal is to become a Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.  

Expert Care for Every Step of the Comeback 

Reagan’s journey is just one example of the life-changing care available at Covenant Health. From the sideline to the therapy gym, Covenant Health LeConte helped Reagan navigate every stage of overcoming her injuries. She came back stronger with help from expert care teams committed to her success. 

Learn more about our orthopedic, rehabilitation and sports medicine services today.