Since adolescence, I have had knee pain and subluxation and many knee surgeries. Knee pain was a part of my life for over twenty years, but it became increasingly worse to the point where I had episodes of significant swelling every other week. It began interfering with my work, my commute, and limited my activities with my family. I was directed to Dr. Shubin Stein who recommended surgery to improve the alignment and stability of my patella while decreasing the stresses placed on it. When we first met, Dr. Shubin Stein told me that she couldn’t make me pain-free but she would make me feel better. I reluctantly agreed to surgery. I underwent a tibial tubercle osteotomy, medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction, and De Novo cartilage graft.

It was a long road to recovery. I spent many hours working on my range of motion and strength in physical therapy. My therapists, Glen Rowell, PT of BiCounty Physical Therapy (an HSS Rehabilitation Network Member) and Theresa Chiaia, PT at HSS were an invaluable support system.

Dr. Shubin Stein told me that she would make me feel better but I never anticipated the end result. I feel AMAZING! My knee is better than it was twenty years ago! The experience has been life changing for me. I climbed Mt Crested Butte, elevation 12,162′ and I had no pain. I am a fun mom now! Over the winter I was able to run through the snow and sled and snowmobile with my two young boys. This summer we went to the ocean and jumped over the waves for hours. There is nothing better than hearing my children squeal with laughter as we play tag and chase each other across the yard! I wake up in the morning and I have no pain. I wish I could put that feeling into words but I can’t describe it. Finally, I am IN the game!