The Team
LOCALLY GROWN, SERVING THE COMMUNITY THEY LOVE.
SHELLY THOMAS
Shelly Thomas is the Medical Assistant for Dr. Nick Kennedy, keeping Nick’s practice running smoothly and providing patients the clarity and care they deserve. Raised in the Upper Valley of Yakima, Shelly graduated from Highland High School. She worked at Nordstrom in Yakima from 1989 until they closed in 2001, where she learned exceptional customer service skills and truly enjoyed helping people.
In 2002, Shelly started at Orthopedics Northwest, working as a primary medical assistant: first for Dr. Raymond Snyder, then for Dr. Richard Roux and Dr. Todd Orvald for the remainders of both their careers. Beginning in August 2023, Shelly and Nick teamed up, and she’s excited to continue to bring excellent care and innovation to the Yakima Valley.
Jesus Gonzalez
Jesus Gonzalez is the Athletic Trainer for the greater Orthopedics Northwest team, creating relationships with patients and athletes for the ultimate holistic care. Born, raised, and trained in the Yakima Valley and greater Eastern Washington area, sports and care for athletes is the backbone of his career and passions. After attending high school at Eisenhower High School, he took his talents to Whitworth University, where he competed in track for the Pirates in the 60, 200, and 400 events, and earned his BA in Kinesiology and MS in Athletic Training.
When not in the office, Jesus is also part of the Sports Medicine Outreach Program, providing athletic training services at schools in the valley such as La Salle High School and Riverside Christian School.