My story began while on Navy Reserve Annual Field Training exercises in February of 2013. I experienced a herniated disc, which with 3 weeks of physical therapy, subsided. This unfortunately led directly into an inguinal hernia, which required 4 weeks of inactivity. I am a marathon runner, and being sidelined was very unsettling to me.
After my hernia recovery, I went for an easy 3 mile run. At the 2-mile mark, I tore the meniscus in my left knee. Not realizing this immediately, I was sent for more physical therapy. After 4 weeks of PT, the MRI revealed the tear in my left knee, so I scheduled an appointment with Dr. Ciccotti at Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, taking the advice of my physical therapist. Dr. Coccotti, is a marathon runner himself, and his understanding of my frustration was just as important as the surgery he would perform on me. Dr. Ciccotti, graciously accommodated my aggressive schedule for surgery and rehabilitation.
After a few fits and starts, in my return to full marathon training, I was able to assume a comprehensive training plan for the San Diego Marathon in June of 2014. I met this goal and was lucky enough to actually run this race WITH my daughter, Alicia, who was also returning from a hip injury. We both experienced our "Phoenix", our "Rise from the Ashes". We finished together and made a memory we will never forget. On top of this, I went right into training for the Marine Corps Marathon in October of 2014. Well, at this writing, I can say I just completed the Marine Corps Marathon. 2014 marks the first calendar year I was able to actually run and complete two (2) marathons. I owe my positive experience and the continuance of my running career to Dr. Ciccotti and his excellent work, which enabled me to endure numerous training runs in excess of 20 miles, track repeat intervals, and tempo runs over the past 10 months.
From the jump, when I first entered the Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, I knew I would come back 100% from my injury. Rothman is run like no other health facility I have ever been involved with. The total professionalism, and dedication to making its patients right, is second to none. I extend my sincere thanks to Dr. Ciccotti and Lee Ann who were principally responsible for my care. So now, I am back on the roads, chasing my marathon goals, for many, many years to come. Thanks Rothman Orthopaedic Institute--YOU ROCK!
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