My Comeback Story: ROBERT B.

Next Monday, I will have a right hip replacement performed by Dr. Brian Gladnick. You might have heard the term GOAT? (Greatest of All Time.) I call Dr. Gladnick a HOG (Hands of God). I have had my left hip replaced by him and my life was transformed. The chronic and debilitating pain that I had lived with for years is gone, but the letter today is about so much more and so many more people than just one surgeon or just one surgery.

To start with, the desk professionals that work at the physical rehabilitation unit are among the most professional and kind people I have ever had the pleasure to work with. The casual and sincere hello and genuine interest in every patient that arrives is simply wonderful. It may seem strange, but the only word that comes to mind is elegant. The way they do their jobs would be right at home at the clinic or a palace. They deserve to be called by name. Neaya Hanssen, Amaya Seanz, Debra Johnson and Cameron Mejia James are professionals that any organization should be honored to have working for them.

Then there are the people that I have been blessed to work with on my recovery and healing journey. First and foremost is Mr. Sean Lambert. Sean is a gifted therapist. His intuition and skill set are literally unparalleled. He is an enormous part of the outstanding outcome I have had. I am truly lucky to also call him a friend.

Second is Jack Teal. Mr. Teal stepped in seamlessly to continue my therapy when Sean went to Italy on vacation. That was when I realized that physical therapy is not just a skill set, it is an art. It was a gift to see a different and equally effective take on his job. Because of his skill, my care was not only not interrupted but enhanced.

And then there is the rest of the team of top-notch professionals that make these everyday miracles look so routine. Kyra Harris, Karole Requilman, Kesley Mulik and Jordan. Sorry, Jordan, I don't know your last name. Maybe you're like Madonna and Beyonce and just don't need one. Without these people, the wonderful work that goes on every day in that clinic simply would not be possible. Beyond the warm and welcoming smiles is knowledge, education and dedication to excellence that is impossible to miss.

There is just one more person I would like to single out: Valerie R. Valerie is that special someone that keeps us all on task and makes it a joy to do so. Just the sound of her voice makes me smile because I know without any doubt that I am in the finest hands possible. She is funny, focused and unforgettable. Special shout out to Candy and Cara in Dr. Brian's office for holding my hand for the first operation and putting up with my crazy questions and phone calls.

Next Monday, Dr. Gladnick will once again change my life, and after that, the wonderful people in the physical therapy unit at the Carrell Center will once again be there. I am of an age that I now realize how very rare people and places like this are. I just had to make sure to all it may concern that they know that this is one of them. Thank you seems such an anemic response to a group of people that has given me so much, but until they come up with better words.....see you next Monday. From the bottom of my heart, thank you all.

– Robert B.