In 2016, a local foot and ankle surgeon referred me to Dr. Ellis for ankle replacement surgery on both ankles. I tried alternatives to surgery for a while, but in the end scheduled an appointment with Dr. Ellis when walking any distance became too painful. I had my left ankle replacement in 2018 and the second replacement on my right ankle 18 months later. Dr. Ellis gave me my life back. Before surgery, every step was painful and I was extremely limited in what I could do. After a several month recovery for each surgery, I can golf, hike, climb stairs and walk for miles pain-free. I am very thankful to the initial specialist I saw, who both recognized what I needed and that it required the specialized care provided by Dr. Ellis at HSS. That is why I give annually in gratitude for my “new” ankles.