In the span of a few months at the beginning of 8th grade, 13 year old Nora went from experiencing some ankle stiffness to constant pain and needing to use a crutch full time. She had previously had ankle difficulties that never seemed to fully resolve. Dr. Blanco was immediately friendly and a fantastic listener, putting us both at ease. He swiftly confirmed her diagnoses of a tarsal coalition. He reassured us that surgery would resolve the problem and eliminate her pain. HSS staff made surgery day December 9, 2022 such a pleasant experience, alleviating nerves and answering questions, and of course, Dr. Blanco was a constant presence before, during, and after surgery. Nora recognized that her pain had gone away long before her cast was removed. Physical therapy had her walking without a crutch very quickly, and just 6 months after our first meeting with Dr. Blanco, Nora was back to herself walking around school, wearing heels to her moving up ceremony, hiking in Puerto Rico, and sailing all summer. Not much time goes by when we don't reflect on how grateful we are for Dr. Blanco's wisdom and expertise!