Diana Abreu

Dr. Pearle is truly my lifesaver. After a poorly performed left knee replacement in Connecticut, my right knee began to deteriorate as well, and I was told I would need a total knee replacement on that side. Wanting another opinion, I went to Dr. Pearle. After careful consideration and additional testing, he recommended a partial knee replacement instead. It was the best decision I could have made.

As a teacher, being able to stand and be on my feet was my greatest concern. Following surgery, I experienced relatively little pain and have remained pain‑free ever since. When I later tore my rotator cuff while traveling in Spain with my students, I immediately returned to Dr. Pearle. Once again, the outcome was remarkable - I’ve had no pain and regained excellent range of motion. When my husband fell and suddenly lost control of his leg, Dr. Pearle performed his surgery as well, with complete success.

Dr. Pearle has always put his patients first. He is brilliant, highly skilled, and deeply compassionate. My only fear is that I recently learned he is no longer accepting Medicare patients—a category I now fall into. I cannot imagine being in anyone else’s care, but insurance limitations may force that decision. I sincerely hope that the incredible physicians at HSS continue to find ways to care for patients like me.

When Dr. Pearle recommended Dr. Danyl Nawabi to me, I was extremely anxious, fearing I might need hip surgery. Hearing the diagnosis brought many sleepless nights. I eventually called Dr. Nawabi with some of my most pressing concerns. Despite being at a conference on another continent, he returned my call promptly. I couldn’t hide my fear, but without hesitation he said, “I guarantee you will be happy with the outcome.” Who says that anymore?

I trusted him - and he delivered. I have never had another issue with my right hip. I know many others who have undergone similar surgeries elsewhere with disappointing results, but my outcome has been nothing short of miraculous.

Together, Dr. Pearle and Dr. Nawabi have given me both physical freedom and peace of mind, allowing me to continue teaching and living life fully. I once asked Dr. Pearle why he chose to become a doctor and work at HSS. He told me it was a happy profession - one where you help people out of pain and see positive results - and that HSS is a happy place. I couldn’t agree more.

I think of my mother, who struggled painfully with joint issues and walked unsteadily, and I know how different my life could have been. Both my husband and I are profoundly grateful to Dr. Pearle, and I am equally thankful to Dr. Nawabi. For us, HSS has truly been a very happy place.