Christine Cooper

I was born with Cerebral Palsy that affects the left side of my body. As a result, I have limited use of my left arm and hand. As a child, I received physical and occupational therapy at HSS to increase the function of the limbs that are affected. For 20 years, I learned how to adapt and use my right hand to complete every day tasks and activities. At age 21, with the support of my family, I decided to return to HSS to see if there was a way to improve the function of my left arm. I began seeing Dr. Michelle Carlson at the CHArm Center in January of 2006. From the start, Dr. Carlson was understanding and validated my concerns pertaining to the function of my arm. With careful attention, she worked with my family and I to outline a plan for surgery to improve the function of my left arm. In May 2006, Dr. Carlson performed a tendon release surgery to realign and reduce spasticity in my left arm. After surgery, I immediately had improved range of motion in my arm and hand. After a few months of occupational therapy, the appearance and overall function of my left arm improved dramatically. Having surgery under Dr. Carlson’s care was a very positive experience for me. The tendon release surgery improved the function of my arm. As a result, increased my ability to complete everyday tasks that were not possible before. I now have a new sense of confidence to pursue my goals and dreams. I am forever grateful to Dr. Carlson and HSS for changing my life in a way I never thought was possible.

May 9th, 2024:

Having Cerebral Palsy is a small facet of my life experience, but it has given me a unique purpose and perspective. As my perspective as a person with a disability developed, I crossed paths with supportive medical professionals at HSS who have helped me navigate challenges and maintain the overall function of the left side of my body. In February 2017, I experienced tightness in my left Achilles tendon, and walking became uncomfortable. I returned to HSS and had the pleasure of meeting Dr. Rock Positano. With positive encouragement and careful attention, Dr. Positano provided non-surgical options to treat a stress fracture in my left foot. Under Dr. Positano’s care, my ability to walk comfortably returned, and I can confidently manage the tightness in my left Achilles tendon. Dr. Positano’s supportive nature and commitment to his patients are unmatched. Thank you, Dr. Positano, for helping me improve the function of my Achilles tendon and allowing me to persevere through any challenge that may come my way. Dr. Positano’s outstanding reputation in this field of orthopedics is incredibly well deserved. I am forever grateful to Dr. Positano and HSS for making my experience with Cerebral Palsy a positive and rewarding one.