"Walking My Daughter Down the Wedding Aisle"

Patient Story: Mike from Rochester, NY

What was life like before joint replacement?

Life before hip replacement was lonely and painful. I was very active with running, racket ball, weightlifting, and walking with my wife. I was taking Motrin to beat the pain. I forced myself to stay active until it got the better of me. I stopped everything. I stopped "living it up." I stopped sleeping, therefore it affected my relationship with my family and friends. I suffered for two years before deciding to go ahead with surgery.

What was the moment you knew you needed to move ahead with surgery?

The deciding point came when my daughter told me she was getting married. I wanted to be able to walk her down the aisle without limping, plus have a normal Father/Daughter wedding dance. At that point I had 18 months to get the surgery done and recover.

How has joint replacement changed your life?

It's the greatest feeling to walk your daughter down the aisle for her wedding day, and do it pain free. I had a beautiful wedding dance with my daughter. I now am able to walk, lift weights, ride a bike, and work a job without having to medicate before and after doing those things.

What information do you have that would help others considering joint replacement?

Do it for your family and friends.