Denise Minor, Office Manager, Radiologic Technician/Medical Assistant

Denise worked as a bookkeeper for 10 years in a retail sales business in Abingdon, Virginia. She then attended Southwest Virginia Community College in Richlands, Virginia from 1994-1996 and graduated with a Radiologic Technologist Degree, Associate of Applied Science in 1996. She worked as an x-ray technician for Sports Medicine Orthopaedics in Chesapeake, Virginia, from 1997-1998. She moved to Charlottesville and continued to work as an x-ray technician for an Orthopaedic office. She joined Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center in February 2004. Denise enjoys singing, music, being with her family and watching Survivor.

Dakota Withers, Medical Assistant/Tech

Dakota grew up and lives in the Charlottesville area. At 17, he joined the Virginia Army National Guard as a medic, where he traveled to Ft. Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas for his medical training. He is still an active member, and has been sent on various missions throughout the state during emergencies. Once his initial training for the military was completed, he attended Piedmont Virginia Community College, working towards a major in general science with an emphasis in biology. In 1997, he began at the University of Virginia on the venipuncture team. He then went on to Prompt Care where worked in various departments. He joined Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center in May of 2003 as a medical assistant for Dr. Nielsen. In his spare time, Dakota enjoys horseback riding, dancing, and various outdoor activities.

Kelly Cochran, Radiologic Technician, Limited/Medical Assistant

Kelly has lived in Charlottesville for over 20 years. She originates from York, Pa. Kelly started in the "industry" in 1990 doing 3rd party collections. She also has experience in insurance billing and reimbursement. Kelly is adding to her list of knowledge by becoming a Radiologic Technician, Limited. She started with Charlottesville Orthopaedic Center in October of 2004.

In her spare time she enjoys spending it with her family, friends and her 2nd life on the "farm". She has one daughter who attends Randolph Macon College in Ashland, Virginia.

Helena Stroppel, Patient Services Specialist

Helena worked in the manufacturing industry for 15 years in the Harrisonburg, VA area. In 2004 she went back to school and attended Massanutten Technical Center where she studied Medical Office Computer skills. She graduated in 2005 and began working in the medical field. In 2007 she moved to the Charlottesville area and worked for an Orthopaedic Surgeon. She joined Charlottesville Orthopaedics Center in January 2008. Helena enjoys reading, traveling and spending time with her family.