Denise Reiss

I was referred to the Lifestyle Medicine Program by my surgeon, Dr. Elizabeth Gausden. I’m not your typical patient, in that eating has never been a priority for me. I’ve been thin my entire life while maintaining an active lifestyle. At my initial consult with Dr. Gausden, my husband and children (who joined by phone) expressed concern about my eating habits. Dr. Gausden strongly recommended that I be guided and monitored by the Lifestyle Medicine team, in an effort to help me focus on a more balanced, protein-rich diet prior to surgery.

My case was complicated, I required a two-phase surgery due to a failed procedure in Miami following a fall in April 2024 in which I shattered my tibia plateau. After five months of persistent pain and swelling, I sought a second opinion at HSS. Since I live in Miami, the Lifestyle Medicine team coordinated telehealth visits, beginning with Cara Suter, the care coordinator, who arranged appointments with nurse practitioner Karen Griffin and nutritionist Kate Cohen.

My first visit with Karen was incredibly positive. She asked how committed I was to following the program, and I told her I was all in. I needed someone to be accountable to, and if improving my nutrition could speed up my recovery, I was more than willing. After reviewing my health concerns, she ordered additional labs beyond standard pre-op bloodwork and followed up with me in detail. Our conversations covered nutrition, sleep, and the emotional weight of recovery. While I tend to stay optimistic, I admitted that I had gone down that rabbit hole. This recovery was painfully long.

My next visit was with Kate Cohen, a wonderful nutritionist! As I shared with her my biggest challenge has always been not eating or not eating enough (food has never been on my radar), but now that I’m housebound and unable to drive, I’ve had time to plan meals and snacks. Kate has provided thoughtful, easy-to-follow suggestions that I never would have come up with on my own. I even told her during our last call that "she is the voice in my head" when I’m preparing meals, so no more mindless handfuls of M&Ms! I'm happy to report she has been the impetus to my kitchen pantry being stocked with healthier options. With this mindset I am genuinely making healthier changes.

Throughout it all, Cara has checked in regularly, which I’ve deeply appreciated. The consistency, care, and personal follow-up have made this experience truly supportive. I am grateful to the entire Lifestyle Medicine team for helping me take ownership of my recovery in such a holistic way.

I would absolutely recommend this program to anyone looking to optimize their health and recovery, especially those who, like me, needed a gentle nudge and meaningful guidance to develop better habits.