Lizabeth Prentiss

March 2013 I broke both sides of my right ankle requiring surgery with a rod and 12 screws on one side and a pin on the other, The staff in Uniondale and HSS in NYC was very professional and compassionate considering I was pretty miserable and not very upbeat or patient. As for pain management because I am a recovering alcoholic I opted to stop prescription painkillers and switched to Advil 8 days after surgery and felt fine. During my first meeting with Dr. Drakos my first question was "Will I be able to go to the ocean this summer?" "Doubtful, think kiddie pool" was the answer I got. In the grand scheme of things, after recovering from surgery, I realized it was only 1 summer in my life and I couldn't drive from March 30 - July 4 anyway, which required me to ask others for help, which is something I was never good at so it was all a learning experience. I was fortunate to have many supportive friends picking me and my scooter. I even took my scooter on the LIRR few times (would not recommend this). Not being fond of sneakers, I really hated wearing them everywhere, but 6 months back in low soft shoes and in 11-12 months, I could even wear medium sturdy heel for a few hours just like the doctor told me. At 5-6 months I could walk on the hard sand at the beach. At 15 months I was back at the ocean riding waves and at 18 months went on a cruise and went snorkeling with fins on in Bermuda and zip lining in Puerto Rico. Next week, I am starting ballroom dance lessons. I find there is always a silver lining when we come out the other side of challenging situations. For me it was learning how to slow down and instead of care taking, letting others care for me. In addition, I have newfound appreciation for walking, which has allowed me not to wait to try new things. You never know when you might not have that ability. Thank you Dr. Drakos and HSS for all you do.