Chris Casteel Named BOC Certificant of the Year

The Board of Certification/Accreditation (BOC) proudly announces Chris Casteel, BOCO, BOCP, co-owner of Detroit, MI’s Anew Life Prosthetics and Orthotics, LLC, as the recipient of the organization’s 2024 Certificant of the Year Award.

Casteel, a seasoned professional in the orthotics and prosthetics (O&P) field, is being recognized for his exceptional commitment to improving patient care and advancing the standards of practice. With more than two decades of experience, Casteel is a source of hope for individuals facing mobility challenges. His journey in the field highlights his remarkable resilience and dedication to helping others. After overcoming his own obstacles following limb loss at the age of 24, Casteel has made it his mission to "pay it forward" by empowering others to live fulfilling lives with the help of O&P devices.

Throughout his career, Casteel has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to excellence, innovation and compassionate patient care. His unwavering dedication to staying abreast of the latest advancements in O&P technology, such as implementing 3D scanning and printing for prosthetic sockets and other orthotic devices, has made him a trailblazer in the field.

Casteel has been praised by colleagues and peers for his compassionate approach and innovative solutions. He has transformed lives and restored hope to countless individuals both in the United States and abroad. He has been a peer counselor for many years and hosts a monthly amputee support group that he initiated at the University of Michigan. This model has sparked interest in the community and has now spread to other local hospitals. In 2010, Casteel volunteered in Haiti, where he donated his time, energy and knowledge of O&P to assist children and adults with disabilities who needed help following the region’s catastrophic earthquakes.

"I am deeply honored to receive BOC’s Certificant of the Year Award,” said Casteel. “This recognition is a testament to the incredible support I have received from my colleagues, patients and community. My journey through limb loss and rehabilitation has been profoundly personal, and it has driven my passion to help others regain their mobility and independence. This recognition encourages me to continue advocating for O&P advancements and to remain dedicated to providing the best care possible for my patients and community.”

BOC is proud to recognize Casteel for his accomplishments and contributions.

"We are thrilled to recognize Chris Casteel as the recipient of BOC's Certificant of the Year Award," said BOC’s President & CEO Judi Knott, MA, MBA, CAE. "His dedication to delivering excellent patient care and customer service exemplifies the values that define our profession. Chris's contributions serve as an inspiration to us all, and we are proud to honor him for his outstanding achievements."

The nomination period for BOC’s next Certificant of the Year award will open in Fall 2024. Those eligible for the award include BOC-certified Durable Medical Equipment Specialists, Mastectomy Fitters, Orthotic Fitters, Orthotists, Pedorthists and Prosthetists who evidence outstanding contributions to their profession, including commitments to service, research and outreach.

For more information about the award and BOC, visit www.bocusa.org.