Gloria Valdez

I am a retired anesthesiologist at present, but at the time of surgery, I was full time. I hesitated to have my surgery done initially but none of the pain management options were relieving the discomfort. In fact the hip joint pain got worse and incapacitated me at work and during my travels which is one of my passions. Dr. Salvati, who did my operation, did an excellent job. HSS staff were great in every way. One of the highlights during my hospital stay is meeting a patient, a very nice lady Mim Baker, next to my hospital bed and who had her knee replacement by the same surgeon. What a beautiful friendship it turned out to be! Following my surgery, I decided to do my own rehab. I asked the permission of Dr Salvati if I can go to my time share at the Marriott Aruba Surf Club for 2 weeks, one week after surgery. Since I assured him that I know my limits, he consented, provided that I take the Aspirin prophylaxis and take the post hip replacement precautions. I devised my own rehab consisting of daily whirlpool soaks outdoors, noon time exercises in the regular swimming pool and walks on the beach every sunset. What a remarkable recovery I had after 2 weeks at the resort. Thank you Dr. Salvati and HSS for giving me a new lease on life. Now I continue to enjoy my travels including a camel ride at the Moroccan Sahara Desert and the climb of the spectacular Peruvian mountains in Machu Picchu.