Our Team
Mary Kate Walsh, PA-C
Physician Assistant, Practice Manager
Mary Kate is a physician assistant to Dr. Chahla. As a member of the sports medicine team, Mary Kate assists Dr. Chahla with seeing patients in clinic and formulating diagnosis and treatment plans. Additionally, she offers surgical assistance in the operating room, while also working closely with patients to provide both preoperative and postoperative education. She received her bachelor’s degree in Anthropology with a minor in Science, Technology, and Values from the University of Notre Dame in 2015. While receiving her Master of Physician Assistant Studies Degree from the University of Saint Francis in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Mary Kate was elected into Pi Alpha National Honor Society for Physician Assistants. A lifelong athlete, Mary Kate has always had a passion for orthopedic surgery and sports medicine. Through an approach based on compassion and individualized care, Mary Kate has devoted her career to helping patients regain their desired levels of activity and return to sport.
Hayden Bagnell-Pettine, PA
Physician Assistant
Hayden is a Physician Assistant on Dr. Chahla’s team. Originally from Massachusetts, her passion for athletics began early – participating in sports such as football, baseball, softball, basketball, soccer, and field hockey. Her own experiences with sports-related injuries sparked an early interest in orthopedics and patient care. Hayden earned her undergraduate degree in Health Sciences from Merrimack College, where she competed as a multi-event athlete on the track and field team. She went on to receive her Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies from Johnson & Wales University, where her interest in sports medicine and procedural care strengthened. Hayden strives to use her firsthand experience as a patient and athlete to connect with her patients and help them return to their sport at their fullest potential.
Erin Barton-Yates, NP
Nurse Practitioner
Erin is a nurse practitioner on Dr. Chahla’s team. She brings a strong clinical foundation and a commitment to patient-centered care, combining advanced training with years of hands-on nursing experience in post-surgical and perioperative settings. She earned both her Master of Science in Nursing and Doctor of Nursing Practice from Rush University in Chicago. Prior to becoming a nurse practitioner, she worked in the Surgical Intermediate Care Unit as well as in the Perioperative Care Unit, developing a deep understanding of surgical preop and recovery. Erin has always admired the resilience of those overcoming injury. She brings that same mindset to her practice and believes teamwork—on and off the field—is key to excellent care. She is dedicated to building strong patient relationships and helping individuals heal, regain strength, and return to the activities they love.
Alex Maskill, ATC
Athletic Trainer
Alexandra is an athletic trainer for Dr Chahla. She graduated from Carthage College, with a bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training. Alexandra grew up playing many sports, which catapulted her love for working professionally with athletes and helping them get back to their desired activities after injury. Alexandra is a mom of three, so she enjoys getting to spend as much time as she can with them. Alexandra is thrilled to be a member of Dr. Chahla’s team for Midwest Orthopedics at Rush. As a member of this orthopaedic sports medicine team, it brings her so much joy to be a small part in helping patients resume their passions.
Vivian Rivera
Administrative Assistant
Vivian is the administrative assistant to Dr. Chahla. As a member of his team, Vivian assists with clinic, scheduling, and patient reception and service. Being a part of the team means being able to help patients resume their passions, and Vivian is humbled to have a small part in their journey. Vivian is thrilled to be a member of Dr. Chahla’s team for Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush.
Mirian Degracia
Administrative Assistant
Mirian is the administrative assistant to Dr. Chahla. With 11 years as a pharmacy tech and a total of 16 years in customer service, Mirian has spent the last two years of her career fully immersed in real estate. Now, Mirian takes pride in being part of Dr. Chahla’s team at Midwest Orthopedics at Rush, where customer service remains her top priority. Fluent in Spanish, Mirian is here to guide our patients on a supportive tour, ensuring their needs are met with compassion and expertise. Mirian is ready to deliver the best experience for our patients’ orthopedic journey.