Christa Hartmann

HSS got me “Back in the Game” TWICE

On June 30, 2009 I had back surgery at HSS to correct the degeneration of two discs from osteomyelitis. The HSS surgeon Dr. Patrick O’Leary installed – what I am calling my “scaffolding” – a titanium cage crafted to the bone and secured with screws to replace what the infection had taken away. At that time Dr. O’Leary and HSS got me “Back in the Game” to the point that I was able at age 67 to run and finish the Empire State Building Run-Up in 26 minutes on February 2, 2010.

When age related deterioration of cartilage in the hip joints necessitated total hip replacement surgery in 2015, I knew where to go. Dr. O’Leary (he does not do hips) made an appointment for me at HSS with Dr. Alejandro Gonzalez Della Valle. On April 1, 2015 I had total left hip replacement to be followed by total right hip replacement on August 19th, 2015. I was confident that Dr. Gonzalez Della Valle would get me “Back in the Game”, and he did.

While my participation in the crown jewel of New York Road Runners’ races, the TCS New York City Marathon, was out of reach for 2015, I was able to complete my 16th New York City Marathon on November 6, 2016 at age 74.

I highly recommend HSS for its brilliant doctors, amazing staff, and gorgeous premises. The hospital is impeccably clean, safe, and sanitary. Thank you for getting me “Back in the Game” twice.