Meet Our Ambassadors Up Close and Personal

Meet our Joint Ambassadors

 Donna Cerny and Gary Whitmarsh both of whom have had joint replacements at Exeter Hospital’s Center for Joint replacement.

 

Donna Cerny had her right hip replaced in November 2005, her right knee in September 2006, and her left knee in March of 2007. Donna came to the Center for Joint Replacement through a referral from a close friend. She had been living with chronic pain and walking had become very difficult for her over the last three to four years. As a second grade teacher for 33 years Donna did not want to forfeit her active lifestyle. She chose to attend an informational presentation by Dr. McGovern and called to schedule an appointment the very next day. Donna says, “I never questioned whether I made the right decision.” “It’s been wonderful not having to plan around pain. I now have the mental energy to enjoy life, play the harp and be a hospice volunteer.”

 

Donna credits Dr. McGovern and the staff of the Center for Joint Replacement for providing “helpful, informative classes.” She felt the team provided in-depth knowledge, support and “great follow-up!”

 

Gary Whitmarsh came to the Center for Joint Replacement after performing a lot of in-depth research and receiving a referral from a prior patient. At the time that Gary attended a lecture on computer assisted surgery, given by Dr. McGovern, he had difficulty with standing. Gary says, “I was unable to stand up straight, I had no cartilage left in both knees.” Gary remembers how “driving and getting out of a car were virtually impossible tasks.”

 

Gary recalls he had two goals he wanted to achieve through joint replacement; they were to “1) stand up and walk with his wife, and 2) not lag a ½ mile behind her.” Gary chose to have both knees replaced in October of 2006. Gary has since surpassed both goals; he can now stand up straight and looks taller than before his surgery. For Gary the surgery has been life changing. He can now enjoy his profession and take long walks with his wife. Gary uses the word “outstanding” when reflecting on his care at the Center for Joint Replacement.