Where skill meets compassion: The work of Dr. Charlie Yang

At 80 years old, Sandy Lang was preparing for her third major orthopedic surgery in six years. For most patients, this would be a daunting event – but Sandy was confident and hopeful – all thanks to her orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Charlie Yang. “Not only is Dr. Yang a brilliant surgeon,” explains Sandy, “he is absolutely dedicated to ensuring his patients feel safe and cared for.”

Sandy and her husband, Bruce, first met Dr. Yang at AdventHealth Medical Group Colorado Joint Replacement at Porter in 2018. Bruce had been suffering with knee pain and met with Dr. Yang for a surgical consultation. “We were immediately impressed by Dr. Yang’s expertise, caring demeanor and great sense of humor,” explains Sandy. “Even though he’s an extremely busy surgeon, he really takes time to sit with you and address your concerns.”

Sandy and Bruce returned to see Dr. Yang – this time for advice on Sandy’s arthritic left hip. "After Bruce’s great experience, there was no doubt we would choose Dr. Yang again for my surgery – and I am so glad we did – the results are amazing.”

Several years after her successful hip replacement, Sandy returned to Dr. Yang for knee replacement surgery, and again in 2025 for a surgery on her right hip. “Being older for this surgery made me a bit nervous, but the care Dr. Yang and his team showed me was outstanding.” Sandy praises Dr. Yang’s team members for their exceptional work ethic and dedication: “His staff are all wonderful people - prompt, professional and attentive. They reflect his perfectionism and commitment to patients.”

Sandy believes part of the reason Dr. Yang is such a good surgeon has to do with his focus on the patient’s mental and emotional well-being: “He understands that surgery is an emotional journey that requires trust, reassurance, and genuine care.”

Just nine weeks following Sandy’s most recent surgery with Dr. Yang, she is already noticing a remarkable difference—her stance is finally even, her posture balanced, and the pain is gone. Now free from her walker and cane, Sandy is embracing a life full of possibility. She looks forward to traveling, starting with a trip to California to see her grandson’s graduation. Walking regularly, attending book club, playing bridge—activities that once felt difficult—have now become regular sources of joy.

After three transformative surgeries, Sandy explains, "I would trust Charlie with anything – he’s like our extended family.” And as she prepares to celebrate her 60th wedding anniversary, she does so with gratitude—for her health, her independence, and for the surgeon who made it all possible.