C SUITE TO SURGICAL SUITE
Courtney C., a seasoned healthcare professional, understands the importance of compassionate care firsthand. For years, chronic knee pain had limited her mobility and joy, impacting her ability to spend quality time with her family. Despite seeking medical advice, she faced significant hurdles, including an initial denial of surgery and years of delayed treatment.
"Probably around 20 years ago, I started having issues with my knees, and I had scopes done on both of them. Throughout the years, they just continued to get worse," Courtney recalls. The doctor she was seeing said he would not perform a knee replacement for her based on her younger age. “At the time, that was 11 years away, and I was devastated.”
This disheartening experience left Courtney feeling like she’d have to accept a life of limitations. However, a turning point arrived a couple years later when her aunt required emergency care with Dr. William Braaksma, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and fellowship-trained joint replacement specialist. Witnessing Dr. Braaksma's compassionate and skillful care for her aunt ignited a renewed hope in Courtney.
"I was so impressed by his approach, about his care, there was a genuine perception of care with him," Courtney shares. "It wasn't just a façade—this was coming from his heart."
Just a few days after Dr. Braaksma performed surgery for her aunt, Courtney made her own appointment with him to pursue care for her knee. With Dr. Braaksma's guidance and support, Courtney embarked on a journey of weight loss and preparation for surgery. The day finally arrived when Dr. Braaksma performed a robotic knee replacement, a procedure that would change her life forever.
"Dr. Braaksma truly embodies the McLaren motto of 'Doing What's Best,’" Courtney explains. “There's a right way of doing things, and the way we're supposed to do it, for reasons, and he does it. And he does it with such ease.”
Courtney described her knee replacement as textbook. She was even walking up her stairs as she recovered at home. After six weeks, Courtney was also able to walk the border of her family’s country property for the very first time.
"I feel fantastic. I can tell you that two other family members of mine have gone to see Dr. Braaksma, and I have probably referred another four individuals to see him," Courtney says. “When I see good outcomes and encounter exceptional care, I'm happy to spread that to everyone so they can see that too.”
Today, Courtney is thriving. She's back to enjoying life's simple pleasures—walking, shopping, and spending quality time with loved ones. Her renewed energy and positive outlook show the life-changing impact of exceptional care.
When you’re ready to put chronic joint pain behind you, reach out to our complete joint care specialists at Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron. Call (810) 985-4900 to schedule a consultation or schedule an appointment online.