Patient Stories

Esther and her daughter/coach Becky

Esther had both her right and left hips replaced at North Memorial's Joint Replacement Center.

"I was so impressed with the Joint Replacement Center. I had such good care. The entire staff is so committed."

"The staff understood how important it was to feel independent. Before I went home, they made sure I had all the necessary tools for a successful transition. They made all the arrangements for nursing and physical therapy care, and made sure I knew all of my options. They also taught me how to get dressed and get in and out of bed by myself."

It had been about four years since Esther had been able to hike the trail near her home. Now she can return to hiking. "That's what I've missed the most."

Esther enjoyed the teamwork of the Joint Replacement Center. "We rooted for each other. It was very encouraging, and it took me outside of myself."

"I would never want to lose something like the Joint Replacement Center. It's very unique."

Kathleen
Kathleen prepared for her knee replacement by attending the pre-operative class and tour provided for all incoming patients at North Memorial's Joint Replacement Center. In the class, patients are given a notebook of information. "The notebook was absolutely wonderful. Any question you might have is in there."

She describes the nursing staff as "caring and gentle."

Kathleen started doing exercises six weeks ahead of surgery to strengthen her upper body. A member of Curves, she has gone back to her regular exercise. Something she is very proud of.

"Despite the fact that it was surgery, I'd do it again without any reservations. The whole experience was very positive."

Marlys

Marlys had joint pain a whole year before her hip replacement surgery at the Joint Replacement Center. "I wasn't able to the things I wanted to do," said Marlys. A golfer and walker until the joint pain restricted her activities, she decided to do something about it. She attended a pre-operative education class at the Joint Replacement Center at North Memorial. She received the notebook given to patients and started reading. "That book was invaluable," said Marlys, "I knew what to expect after reading it." She started the pre-operative, strengthening exercises recommended, and did them until surgery. "My whole procedure was a lot easier than I expected," she said. Marlys expressed the desire to reassure other potential patients who might be apprehensive. "This is a choice you can make to rid yourself of pain," said Marlys. " I made the right choice."